OK, as previously posted multiple times, I've got an 87 Ranger 2.3L/Auto that has issues that are seemingly unresolved.
I just completed a NJ to VA to CA trip (3500 miles), and for the 'most' part, it went well. It's just that between 65MPH and 85-90MPH (basically ANYTHING over 65MPH, most obvious around 75MPH), there seems to be this feeling of lack of power, missing, and/or like fuel starvation.
Mind you all now, EVERYTHING has been changed, if not twice, even three times. Everything.
Upon arrival in San Jose, CA I took it to a facility that hooked it up to a dynometer, and was told it was running too rich. I went home, changed the ECU, new plugs, cap rotor and wires, air oil and gas filters (I just replaced the in tank screen and pump last year), and also changed the fuel injection harness plugs on the harness ( I had obtained new ones), adjusted fuel pressure between 39-40 PSI (I installed an adjustable fuel pressure regulator last year), and saw no difference. I also replace all 4 tires with new tires and 2 new rims, so there could be no question as to ANY issues with drivetrain, etc.
It is most definitely in the fuel or ignition. I had the fuel system cleaned 3 times, no difference, I had installed a total of 4 new O2 sensors, new MAP sensors (3), new relays, sensors, solenoid packs, and used dielectric conductance on all connectors.
In any event, maybe someone out there can refer me to a crackerjack in the San Jose CA area to do a major exploratory surgery, as I've got well over $4,000 invested in this truck, and would hate to have to just walk away and sell it.
HELP!!!

 

I don't know Bob, it sounds like you are expecting a lot from a engine only slightly bigger than a 2-liter coke bottle.

I have to respectfully suggest returning all those parts you can and investing in two to four more cylinders.

. . . as long as you are sure it is no longer running rich.

FWIW (and I realize that's very little)

 

Have you checked the compression?

 

Well, in reply to your rather un-humorous response, why then would you say that my 92 VW Cabriolet 1.8 has *****, and the ranger 2.3 doesnt?
I've owned well over 80 cars, trucks and motorcycles, yet all you can sy is that because it's a 2 litre, I shouldn't expect performance? Get real! THere is a problem, and when the truck runs correctly, there are no issues. Save your humor for an appropiate forum.

 

i have a problem similar in my 2.9 V6. but not nearly as bad. I know my problem is the fuel sensor. Its been identified by a techie, and i was just suggested to run it till it craps out. Sooner or later, i'll replace it, but for now, its running alright. its been 2 years since. I've began to notice a large drop in power though, on steep hill climbs. I can hardly hold 55-60 on the hills. which, is not like my truck. sometimes i have to drop it to 3rd gear to pull the hill. have your fuel sensor checked if it hasn't already, Theres my 2 cents

 

Fuel sensor?
I've replace the fuel injectors, fuel wiring harness, fuel filters, fuel screen in the gas tank, electric fuel pumps (both), fuel pressure regulator (replaced with an adjustable one, set it to 39PSI).

So a 'fuel sensor'?

What and where is that, as I'm not finding it in my factory service manual.

 

Has anyone had this problem?? 1986 2.9L for a while the truck runs fine. I mean “purrs beautiful”! Then out of the blue it sounding like it is misfiring, lacks power, won’t rev up, bucks and jerks and blows heavy grey/black smoke. If it stalls it will not start again and smells flooded. Sometimes after I wait a while, it will start and run very rough, but it will only start if I hold it to the floor and crank for a minute or more, then it starts to catch, as it builds R’s and finally starts. And sometimes it won’t start for days!!



The code reader says 51 ECT, 54 ACT, 53 TPS & 34 EGR. If I use the reader while the truck refuses to start I just get an endless shrill beep. If the truck is running fine the reader says nothing is wrong but the codes in the computer memory are as above. I have tested all the sensors and checked the fuel system. Anybody got any Ideas ???????????? Thanx

iaiain