This is my first post, but here it goes, Ive searched and searched.

Got a 2000 Ford Ranger with the 3.0. I put a tank of good gas in it (non ethanol) All of a sudden its hard starting, rough idling, backfiring under acceleration... has new plugs and wires. It is not throwing any codes, could it be the famous cam sync and sensor not sure about the "death chirp" Ive thought ive heard it but not sure.. it has 180k. Planning on a full scale cleaning of everything I can. Kind of sounds like im running on 5 cylinders or a diesel.

Questions

Could it be cam sync and sensor ?

Could it be Fuel filter related ? (to me highly unlikely)

What else could it be ? I'm thinking sensor related

Thanks for your time.

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2000 Ford Ranger 3.0 FF V6, auto. 2wd

30 x 9.50 Tires, MT 15x10 wheels

Stock otherwise, for now