Acts like it runs out of fuel

8T7 · #1 01-29-2011, 10:09 AM

Hey there,
Nu here but been on the reading side, I wanted to share our experience
w/ y'all, hopefully it may benefit someone. I had previously written this but some-how lost it, so if it's a repeat, please disregard. I have an 87 Ford Ranger w/ a 2.9 V6. The truck would act like it would run out of fuel.
We replaced the ignition module, checked wires and connections, fuses,
both fuel pumps, replaced fuel filter, checked fuel pressure, checked sensors, and who knows what else, truck would still leave me stranded,
then my son suggested changing the "Inertia Switch" located [on mine]
on the passenger [upper-most, towards firewall] floor board, under the carpet. Been running like a champ ever since. Just my experience, hopefully this information will help someone.

terryduanemiller · #2 01-29-2011, 10:12 AM

cool, thanks.. sometimes you have to think outside the box

Clinton · #3 01-29-2011, 10:29 AM

Good info! Thanks for sharing!

Nothing but Fords · #4 01-29-2011, 10:41 AM

That happen on my 88 with a 2.9,I"ll have to keep that in mind if it ever happens to my 09.Thanks

olblue88 · #5 01-29-2011, 12:13 PM

mine has a goofy idol at times and if i dont give it gas while at a stop light it will idol so low it wants to die. some weeks it runs fine. it also sounds like it has a slight miss any ideas???????????

loweredexpectations · #6 01-30-2011, 11:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by olblue88

mine has a goofy idol at times and if i dont give it gas while at a stop light it will idol so low it wants to die. some weeks it runs fine. it also sounds like it has a slight miss any ideas???????????

does it run fine when it's operating at a cold temperature? if so it's definitely your ignition module or coil or BOTH. the module and coil warm up after about 5-10 minutes depending on weather. and if they're not properly working then the symptons you should have are... missing throughout driving range, idles erratically, shuts off erratically and SOMETIMES wont start.

if it idles erratically from startup then it could be a handful of things anywhere from electrical, vacuum, to a generic tune up. check your spark plugs and distributor/wires. if they're fine then go get an engine diagnostic. sounds like your ignition module to me.

let us know and good luck!