I just bought this 89 4cyl Ranger. It starts and runs just fine, but sometimes it just spits and sputters, then dies. When first started it runs smooth. I haven't driven it much because I need to get it inspected and I doubt I can get it inspected if it is dying. Just idleing it will run for maybe 5 minutes then it starts to struggle and dies.

It seemed that last time I drove it, if I downshifted(it's an automatic) to keep the RPMs up, it would keep going.

The fuel pressure stays up ok.

I am thinking maybe the ignition control module (DIS) But I wanted to see what more knowlwdgeable people would have to say.

I bought the truck because I occassionally have the need to haul something, plus my daughter and I drive older cars and need a spare. So far, it is not doing it's job as a spare vehicle.
Thanks for any help. I hope I wasn't too wordy.

Also, the seller said that the fuel pump, filter, battery and alternator had recently been replaced. I also found some very poor rewiring of relays near the power distribution box. I cleaned up the mess, (soldered and insulated)

Also, it has code 89 - Clutch Converter Overide (CCO) Circuit failure and code 86 - Shift Solenoid (SS) circuit failure. I don't know if these codes are relevant or not. Thanks,