Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Aug 21, 2003 | 05:13 AM

Talon Warlok

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 4

Likes: 0

Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

I must say that you all are very helpful from what I've read on these boards - which is why I just joined.

Over the last two weeks my 91 ranger (2.3L 4cyl) has been periodically sputtering, there does not appear to be any routine to it. I've been pushing in the clutch pedal when it starts to sputter and that seems to fix it for a while. I assumed it was the fuel filter so I replaced it and I thought that worked, until it did it again two days ago.

I bought a replacement fuel pump but then realized the hassle of putting it in and before I go through all that I want to make sure there isn't an easier fix.

I've been told it could be anything from air intake to the cat converter and even a chip.

Any suggestions ?

Aug 21, 2003 | 03:26 PM

Ken00

Post Fiend

Joined: Dec 2001

Posts: 10,562

Likes: 4

From: South Jersey

Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

Welcome to FTE!!!

I would start by checking for codes (see tech info post) and testing fuel pressure.

Aug 21, 2003 | 03:35 PM

FoxRider934

Junior User

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 55

Likes: 0

From: Moreno Valley

Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

Yeah i would check out the air filter, try putting some carb cleaner in it, and go from there i have a 91 too, and i had the same problem, i had to rebuild my carb, does yours sputter after a certain RPM?

Aug 23, 2003 | 06:24 AM

Talon Warlok

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 4

Likes: 0

Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

I am having it diagnosed today to see what comes up.

I haven't noticed it doing it at any specific RPM or when revved too high, it's weird I tell ya' totally random. The check engine light did blink though. I had it up to 95 yesterday without so much as a glitch yet last night just cruising on home it did it again. I'm just afraid that the machine won't come back with anything or that the mechanic will tell me it's some $400 part.

It seems to be fine when I push in the clutch (stabalizes the idle) I am wondering if it's worth it to fix or is this going to get worse?

Aug 23, 2003 | 10:49 AM

FoxRider934

Junior User

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 55

Likes: 0

From: Moreno Valley

Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

Well if you have some internal problem, and you keep driving on it, yes it will get worse, I would just take it to somewhere

Aug 24, 2003 | 06:48 AM

Talon Warlok

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 4

Likes: 0

Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

I took it in to Firestone and had it checked out - they were pretty clueless. The diagnosis came back with an EVP Sensor out of range and something about the EGR Valve.

They reccommended changing out the Sensor (P&L = $130), I can afFORD it but I'm not sure it will fix the problem.

Any suggestions ?

Aug 24, 2003 | 09:19 AM

GrayRanger4x4

Posting Guru

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 1,777

Likes: 1

From: Perry,Ga.

Sputtering issues 1991 Ranger XLT

If that the codes that showed up,its a good bet thats the problem,or at least a good place to start . Look for bad conections or bad wires.Sometimes a wire or a conection could be bad or lose and could cause a intermittent problems.JM.02W