i have a 87 ranger 4x4 2.9L v6 5 spd the problem is
it will start and idle for about 15 seconds and then quit runing
and wont start again for about five minuets
when it is running i can put the pedal to the floor and it will only rev up to about 1000 rpm's. I put a fuel gauge on it and it holds around 45 pounds running or not it acts like it is beeing choked out and will bearly move. "any ideas"

 

Sounds like it could be a clogged catalytic converter. There is a way to check it with a vacuum gauge, but I've forgotten the specifics. Or you can unbolt it and see if it revs better.

"Nothing lasts forever except natural stone and old Ford trucks." (Willie Nelson)