I have a 1986 4 speed 2.3L Ranger. I have had fuel problems in the past, and fixed by replacing the fuel filter,and fuel sensor. I have another problem with the car loosing power. it also seems to be fine at start up,then after it warms up,it starts loosing power. I replaced the spark plugs,wires,distributor cap and rotor. Someone told me the Dist. coil wouldn't be an issue unless it wouldn't start altogether. I really don't like going to the dealerships,but would a dianostic test tell me what's wrong,or would it only tell me what sensors are needed. I also replaced the Distribitor modulator???(It's is located directly under the distributor,for about $92.00)That was only about six months ago. could that be bad already? What other possible problems,besides compression could it be? What's another onboard sensor that may go out,and cause these problems?
I really have to gas it to keep it under power.
Thanks,Bozo4ford

 

I would run the KOEO and KOER tests and see what codes show up.

 

1986 2.3 EFI 5-speed 4 cyl.
Hey Ken00,
I really thought it was my TFI/Ignition Control Module,right under the distribitor cap. The same thing happened nine months ago, and I replaced the module and BAM!...problem solved.
I even replaced my fuel sensor and inline fuel filter and timing belt a few months ago. The problem is that for two weeks it's been loosing power. I thought it was my Ignition Control module,but after replacing it, it's still doing something weird. After approx. twenty minutes from a cold start,it starts shimmying and hesitating,almost stalling. Rough idle too. Cat converter? Someone had mentioned it sounded more like a ignition rather than a fuel problem,but then again,compression,head gasket...????
I should cut to the chase and pay for a diagnostic test. It's worth the $90 buckaroos to aleviate my stress,instead of replacing every part in there.

Thanks for all your time guys/gals,I really appreciate the feedback........ bozo4ford

 

Well, you can save $50-60 bucks if you buy a tester for $20-30 at your local parts house and do the test yourself. Comes with a book that explains most codes, and can be re-used for the next problem. Just follow the directions. The test connector on my '85 is under the plastic cover on the passenger side. Red plastic. The tests are more limited than the OBD-II, but give you a ballpark if the problem caused a code.

tom

 

To all who replied.....
Thank you for all your posts in reply to my problems...... I know many people have sent me their advice,and I probably need every single fix they suggested.It was the pickup coil.
The mechanic had called to tell me that I had an electrical short in the wiring harness,and for me to take it to an Auto electric shop, and that guy said he couldn't look at it,but he had another Auto repair shop that could. I called them and told him the problem,and he told me that everytime you replace your TFI Module, you should replace the pick up coil too. (stater assembly) and that was the most likely problem. So far. Both of you were right!

F.Y.I. >>>>> And for anyone else with an 1986 Ford Ranger,there is NO "Check Engine" light onboard.
And soon,I may still have to replace my fuel pump relay,or the inline fuel pump and filter. Thanks!