Hi. I have a 1994 Ranger XLT and the vehicle always starts fine cold, but often it will simply crank and not catch, as if it has no gas. I bought starting fluid and there are times when the starting fluid will get the truck to catch and then it dies as if it has an empty gas time, but it always manages to restart within 20-30 minutes. I've had it on the computer at AAA and Ford and they can't find the problem, but it's gotten to where I can't trust the truck. Could it be a computer relay, or has anyone actually had this problem and gotten it corrected by some miracle. Email me at Inspmdh@pacbell.net if you know anything at all. I'd appreciate it.

mark

 

Although I've never had this problem, I can tell you a few things that might cause it: bad fuel pump relay, bad powertrain control module relay, bad inertia switch, bad fuel pump or bad fuel pressure regulator. Of course, there's always the wiring to check as well. You'll have to do some troubleshooting to narrow down the possibilities.

 

I have been troubleshooting, hence the diagnostic checks. Any other suggestions out there?

 

Have the shops where you've taken it actually checked the inertia switch, etc., or have they just pulled the codes? Do you know what they've checked? Some of these things may not show up in the codes and you would need to check them individually with a volt/ohm meter or other means next time it happens. There's more to troubleshooting than just pulling the codes, especially on pre-OBD II vehicles.

 

I had this problem with my 1994. When it won't start and you return your key to the "run" position see if the "check engine" light is on. If it is not the problem is your "Power On" relay located in the fuse/relay box in the engine compartment. It supplies 12 volts to all the engine systems including the ignition. It costs about $6.00 at the dealer.