I have a '95 AWD with a 4.0 and it needs a new fuel pressure regulator. The first one I bought had some poorly machined threads that didn't fit the fuel line fitting threads so I took it back and got another one. Well, the second one didn't fit. The problem is either poor machining (as the second regulator's threads didn't look too clean either) or the thread pitch is wrong (i.e., English threads when it should have been metric). And this was a supposedly quality part from a reputable parts store. Anyway, I was wondering what brands of regulators with the threaded fuel fitting other people have successfully installed so that I don't have to try to install the regulator more than three times. My brand choices are Niehoff (Borg-Warner) and Beck-Arnley. I suppose there is always the Ford part. But the guys at Ford tell me the part is about a week away so I'd like to buy one of the first two choices if I can.

Thanks.

 

Mikeman I have a 94 AWD and just put a FPR on mine last weekend. I put on a Borg-Warner. I had the same feeling you did about the threads on it. I had already bolted it down to the engine and started to put the fuel line back on and thought what the hell!!! It would start by hand and then gave resistence (spell) like the threads were different. I was not about to take it off again, so I thought the only thing I would damage would be the braided fuel line so I went ahead and tightened it up and it went fine no leaks or anything. I think the threads are correct they just look different. I replaced it trying to correct a rough idle problem I have been having. Why are you replacing yours? I have replaced every sensor on this thing to get it to idle better. How does yours Idle? This is what I have replaced so far: TPS, IACV, Fuel Filter, New Plugs, New Wires, Air Temp Sensor, electronic temp sensor, I have even swapped out the MAF sensor with one I already had (Thank God). I went to change the )02 Sensor this last weekend, but couldn't get the damn thing off. I will give it another go this weekend with some penetrating oil. I don't think it will help though. If that doesn't help it will have to go into Ford because I just give up!!! I am beginning to think that the Engine Control Module itself is screwed up. I have only owned the van since November. I bought the van from the original (Older people) owners with 56,000 miles on it for my wife. She wanted the van, I tried to get her to get a used Previa, but she thought they were to small. I should have pushed for the previa a little harder. The van other than the idle problem and a whining power steering pump (I will replace as soon as it warms up) does fine. Curious about yours. Thanks Kevin

 

Thanks for letting me know about the Borg Warner part. I just returned the one I got because it looked exactly like the other brand that I tried. It appears as though the same company make the part for both brands. I don't want to mess up the threads on my fuel line so now, I'm off to the dealer for a Ford part.

I've got the same problem you have with a rough (slightly) idle and slightly rougn running in OD with the torque converter locked up at 40mph when I roll on the throttle. However, I think the problem exists at other speeds, it's just not as noticeable. I discovered the low fuel pressure while trying to fix the rough idle but doubt that a new regulator will fix it.

I've done plugs, wires, air temp sensor, fuel filter, cleaned fuel injectors and checked the ECT and MAF to try to solve this problem. I've also swapped the O2 sensor with my Ranger but that did no good (didn't think it would but tried just in case). I'm not too frustrated yet because some of what I did is basic maintenance. Before I go to the dealer, I think I will use this as an excuse to buy another tool (Auto Xray). I'm flying blind without some sort of diagnostic tool. It supposedly will display sensor data so I think that will help in determining the cause. My local library has the Ford powertrain control/emissions diagnostics manual, so I'm hoping I can figure the problem out on my own. I also plan to check out the wiring and grounds next.

As far as the whining power steering pump, mine does the same thing but it's not bad. It's typical and I wouldn't worry about yours unless it sounds really bad or shows other signs of distress.

 

I think we both do have the same problem. Although mine does not do the overdrive thing you are talking about. I have the 95 Ford Service Manual on disc, so if there is anything you need to know off of it let me know. I agree throwing sensors at it is not the way to go, but I have no check engine light so I didn't think there would be any codes. Did you buy the van new? Has it always idled like this? Purhaps if we stay in touch we can figure this out, because I won't stop until I do(HAHA). My power steering pump is whinning excessively all the time so I am going to replace it. Doesn't look to hard anyway, most important thing on these kind of pumps is to get the air out of the system. Is your Ranger a 4.0, if so how does it idle?

 

Thanks for the offer of the service manual. I have the paper copy with the exception of the powertrain control/emissions diagnosis volume. Unfortunately, that's the one I need the most. Does your CD include the powertrain control/emissions diagnosis volume?

I bought the van used with about 57K on it. I can't remember if it has idled this way since I bought it or if it happened a couple of months after. The first time I rememeber noticing it was on a trip a couple of months after I got it.

My Ranger is a 4.0 and idles very smoothly. That's why I'm trying to figure this out - I know the Aerostar should be the same. If I ever figure this one out, I'll post back here with the results. Who knows, I may give in and take it to the dealer but I haven't reached that point yet.

 

Mikeman sorry it took me awhile to respond I have been busy. It looks like the disc does cover emmission control. Let me know if you want me to look up anything. Kevin

 

I was just curious what the emissions diagnosis section would say as to how to start troubleshooting the problem or if it even says anything. I was thinking it gives some sort of flow chart and also tells you what the engine parameters should be (O2 sensor voltage, injector pulse width, etc.). That way, if I look at the parameters and they're off, I might have some clue about where to go next.

 

Mikeman been busy again, it does give many flowcharts and perimeters. Let me know if you need any. I have done something to mine that has helped a 100 percent with the idle. Since all of the sensors and everything else I said before has been replaced, and no check engine light. I decided to mark the idle control screw on the throttle body, and then turn it 2 full turns to the right. It now idles great, and does not jump off the line at a light. I think maybe with age the screw needed to be advanced a little. I can always turn it back. Well I can tell you it won't be turned back(HAHA).

 

 

Im chasing the same problem with my 91 3.0. Slightly rough idle was not always there. This van would always start instantly and idle as smooth as silk until about 6 months ago. It runs good otherwise. I have been down the airfilter,pcv,fuelfilter,plugs,cap,rotor,wires,IAC clean road to no avail. I cant seem to find a vac leak anywhere either. Vacuum is right at 16"- Is this right? I have been living with it for now but it is an ongoing mission whenever I get a new idea to check. Something went south and I am determined to find it. I know how smooth it is supposed to run. If I find the culprit, I will let you guys know. Thanks