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I am having a starting problem with my 1998 2.5l Ranger.It happened first when I went on vacation and came back and now its a daily problem.It will not start when is cold unless I pump on the pedal and give it gas.After starting it will die on me unless I keep the engine revved up when I stop.After it warms up,it is ok.
A lot of things to check. If you used this truck for vacation, check the air filter 1st. I don't know much at all about your engine, but this could definitely choke it.
Sounds like you're describing a sticking IAC solenoid. When mine started sticking, it would just require a blip of the throttle to start, then eventually the truck wouldn't run for a little while unless I kept my foot on the gas. Didn't take much, just enough to open the throttle plate. Cold weather made it worse, too.
I'd recommend cleaning the IAC, using the instructions from the Tech. sticky. Keep in mind though, that cleaning is a short-term solution, and you may end up needing to replace it anyway. Unfortunatly, it's a real pain to remove from these engines.