Ford ranger idles rough and doesn't take off smooth anymore.

Acroma · #1 04-30-2010, 11:04 PM

I was running errands all day and towards the end of the day the engine started to idle rough and shake at low RPM's. You can feel the same shake as I start to give it gas to take off. It doesn't seem to do it at higher RPM's

I just got this truck a week ago and it was very well taken care of. I'm wondering if any of you could tell me offhand what it could be.

The check engine light is on. I pop'd the hood to see if the engine was actually shaking and it is at lower RPM.

I'd like to get some advice before I just say F-it and put it in the shop and get everything fixed on it.

The only problem the truck has is the temp gauge doesn't seem to work properly. But it doesn't over heat.

I live in a bad neighborhood and I hope like hell someone didn't put something in my gas tank.

Vrod21 · #2 04-30-2010, 11:35 PM

Go to an auto parts store and get the codes your check engine light is throwing. This will be a start and we can go from there. They do this for free.

Acroma · #3 05-01-2010, 02:33 PM

Took it down got it checked. The mechanic said it's my #2 plug or wire. I replaced all the spark plugs before I showed up so a new wire set it is.

Boy am I glad that's all it is.

Vrod21 · #4 05-01-2010, 07:30 PM

Could also be your coil pack

Acroma · #5 05-01-2010, 07:50 PM

Yea, he said that could also be the problem. Either way the wires are 15 years old and in need of replacement.

I'm just glad it's not inside the motor.

Acroma · #6 05-02-2010, 07:39 PM

Sorry for the double post. I found a quick and painful way to find out if your Coil pack has a bad port. Pull the plug off and see if it arcs. If it doesn't try and stick your finger in it. If you don't get shocked from about 3/4 of a inch from it it's probably bad. I made sure to check all of them so I've been shocked 5 times with multiple shocks a piece

So I didn't need to replace the plugs or wires but since they both are original it's time to change them anyways.

Vrod21 · #7 05-02-2010, 09:39 PM

Well at least you found the problem. FYI you can test a coil pack by doing the same thing except using a screw driver with a rubber handle instead of your finger. If you haven't already got a coil pack I recommend a screamin demon coil pack from stuffforyourranger.com

Acroma · #8 05-02-2010, 11:08 PM

I'm on a budget and can find them for half that price. Right now it's about getting the truck running properly. Next tax return will be about making it mine