mileage sucks
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
mileage sucks
1990 Ford ranger Std Cab
2.3 L EFI, DIS
4sp w/OD
within the past weeks i've noticed quite a mileage drop, i used to be getting 20+ mpg, but recently i've dropped to somewhere about 15 or lower, i changed the air filter not more than 2 weeks ago, changed the oil about 500 miles ago, tires are fine (inflated properly), and my driving habits havent changed subtsancially, does anyone know what might have caused such a drastic drop......i think i might have a catalytic converter problem, but i have had no run-ins with em before, so if anyone can shed light on that subject it would be appreciated, but with a mileage drop like this, money is somewhat an issue being a full time student and working only part time.....any help/suggestions would be much appreciated
Brian
2.3 L EFI, DIS
4sp w/OD
within the past weeks i've noticed quite a mileage drop, i used to be getting 20+ mpg, but recently i've dropped to somewhere about 15 or lower, i changed the air filter not more than 2 weeks ago, changed the oil about 500 miles ago, tires are fine (inflated properly), and my driving habits havent changed subtsancially, does anyone know what might have caused such a drastic drop......i think i might have a catalytic converter problem, but i have had no run-ins with em before, so if anyone can shed light on that subject it would be appreciated, but with a mileage drop like this, money is somewhat an issue being a full time student and working only part time.....any help/suggestions would be much appreciated
Brian
Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 3,781
Likes: 876
From: Foothills of NC
What weight oil? Too heavy an oil in cold weather will hurt fuel mileage in any engine, especially a small one. Also, I don't know if the year model you have has a MAF in it or not, but if it gets dirty, (which happens easily if you have a K&N) that will really hurt your mileage also.
Senior User
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 385
Likes: 0
From: Flat Rock, Michigan
Had a very similar problem going on with my 91 ranger 3.0L a couple years back.
Turned out to be the fuel pressure regulator. Telltale signs are LOTS of black smoke from tailpipe when accelerating on highway, or when revving the engine while at an idle. You may have other issues, but black smoke is one thing you can look for. It also stinks like wet carbon and the smell stays in your clothes.
After replacing the fuel pressure regulator the mileage returned to normal and the black smoke (unburned fuel) vanished! Good luck on finding an answer.
Turned out to be the fuel pressure regulator. Telltale signs are LOTS of black smoke from tailpipe when accelerating on highway, or when revving the engine while at an idle. You may have other issues, but black smoke is one thing you can look for. It also stinks like wet carbon and the smell stays in your clothes.
After replacing the fuel pressure regulator the mileage returned to normal and the black smoke (unburned fuel) vanished! Good luck on finding an answer.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 3,781
Likes: 876
From: Foothills of NC
P1443 seems to be a hot code on the rangers. (evaporative emission control valve) It will set a light. Clean the MAF while you are at it.
Trending Topics
Post Fiend
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,562
Likes: 4
From: South Jersey
P1443 is an ODB-II code, you will get a two digit code. Make sure you do the KOEO & KOER tests, post tthe codes you get.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
Top 6 Best Deals Available on New Fords & Lincolns Right Now
Brett Foote
This Hennessey Takes the Expedition Tremor's Off-Roading Capability to the Next Level
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Fords at 2026 Carlisle Ford Nationals
Joe Kucinski
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
okay,from the scan tool, here are the codes that came up:
Continuous memory codes-
41-EGO(HO2S) NOT SWITCHING RICH & LEAN
88- NO DUAL PLUG INHIBIT CONTROL
Key on engine running:
52-POWR STEERING PRESS SW OPEN OR NO CHANGE (its manual steering)
Key on engine off:
No codes present
....so if anyone can lemme know how to remedy these it'd be much appreciated....
(btw, it has cali emissions..)
Continuous memory codes-
41-EGO(HO2S) NOT SWITCHING RICH & LEAN
88- NO DUAL PLUG INHIBIT CONTROL
Key on engine running:
52-POWR STEERING PRESS SW OPEN OR NO CHANGE (its manual steering)
Key on engine off:
No codes present
....so if anyone can lemme know how to remedy these it'd be much appreciated....
(btw, it has cali emissions..)
New User
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
First thing I would do is drain the penzoil and go with Castrol or Valvoline. Penzoil can and will gum up an engine. Really has nothing to do with your problem, just an observation from the post. I know its not really my business and others might not agree, but I have seen the results from penzoil and Quacker state and hope no one else has to see it. Just my humble opinion. Merry Christmas
Post Fiend
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,562
Likes: 4
From: South Jersey
If you haven't checked the vacuum line to the FPR for gas do that first, then check the wiring to the O2, then run the pinpoint tests for the 41. If you need a copy just drop me an email and remind me about your truck/code.
Postmaster
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 2,908
Likes: 2
From: West Mansfield, Ohio
I had the same deal with mine. Have you DIS module tested. It mounts to the intake right behind your alternator. I replaced that and my EGR valve and I get well over 20 again. I was getting about 15 like yourself until I replaced those 2 items.
Elder User
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 623
Likes: 0
From: Blytheville, AR
Could the same problem exist on a '99 2.5L? I normally got 22-23 mpg, 26-29mpg on highway, now I am down to 18mpg. It bugs me, any suggestions? I have no CE light... Am currently stumped as to my sucky fuel mileage.