Just picked up a 1990 Ranger ExCab, 4wd. It has the 5spd, 3.73 gears, 30x9.50 tires, and only 92k miles. Runs out decent, smooth ride, shifts nicely (trans is a little noisy), and doesn't have any major issues or warning lights shining. I guess my question is about performance, although I didn't buy this to win any drag races. I live at about 6000ft and this thing feels gutless. Seems like the throttle needs to be buried to maintain 65mph. I get that the tires aren't helping, but I expected a little better than this. My uncle has a stock 91 Toyota 4cyl and seems to have better power. On flat ground, it does alright, but it can't maintain anything better than 60mph up a slight incline.

I know that it has sat for more time than its been on the road, so I have some fuel system cleaners in the tank now. I'll be ordering some 235/15 tires soon as these ones are from 2003 and the sidewalls are cracking. Double checked the throttle body is opening all the way and checked the base timing is set at 10-ish degrees BTDC. Without any bad sensors or incorrect timing, all I can think of is a clogged fuel filter, worn out plugs, or plugged up exhaust (aftermarket muffler installed, unknown age). Any else to look at?

 

That motor makes about 145hp at sea level so you are down 30hp from that to about 115hp, that means you will have to downshift for hills and useful power will always be 2500rpm+