I was just wondering if this was normal for the old B2's. If the truck has been sitting for a half hour or so and the engine hasn't cooled completely then I have to hold the key in the start postion for 2-3 seconds before it starts. Otherwise if the engine is completely cooled or warm it always starts pretty much instantly.

Josh

 

What do you mean 1/2 choke? There is no choke on these engines.

I'd check for any trouble codes, if none, I'd suspect a possible fuel pressure issue or a bad engine coolant temperature sensor.

 

double post

 

Thanks for posting on this Ian. Hopefully you could help me understand what's going on a little better.

"What do you mean 1/2 choke? There is no choke on these engines"
Choke for lack of a better word and maybe that's just my limited carburetion experience coming out. From what I understand (or think I do) the fuel injection system constantly monitors and adjusts the air/fuel mixture with a slightly 'enriched' mixture at start-up. What I don't understand is how it knows initially during start-up what to set the mixture at. Like I mentioned everything's working properly with a cold or hot engine, it's just that in-between where it seems to be having trouble which I'm gathering from your post is not normal.

"Check for trouble codes"
I could have the codes checked if you think that would be worthwhile, the check engine light is not on. How would you recommend I get them checked? I understand Autozone does not check pre-'96 or so vehicles.

"Fuel pressure issue"
If pressure is leaking out while sitting wouldn't it get progressively worse the longer it sits before start-up, and if not enough pressure from the pumps wouldn't there be some sign of it while driving? Again, just trying to understand with my limited experience.

"Bad Engine Coolant Temp Sensor"
Is this how the fuel injection system knows what mixture to use at initial start-up? My temp gauge does seem to be working properly if that matters.

Thanks, and I hope to hear your thoughts again.
Josh

 

The temperature sensor controls all aspects of engine running, especially start up.

If you have a check engine light, you can check your codes with a paper-clip. If you don't, you can still use a paper clip but you will need a test light. If you search for Ford OBD-1 test, you should be able to find out how to do it.

The fuel pressure was just a shot in the dark, but it is worth trying. I'd recommend making a post in the Ranger section on here. The BIIs and early Rangers are similar enough, and that section gets much more traffic.

 

Much appreciated buddy I'll study up on the OBD-1 test and post in the Ranger section if I get stuck.

Josh