got the intake plenum gaskets on and so far it has been running great with no more problems... it idled for 40-45 minutes without missing or dying and it drives TONS better without even thinking about dying. so i'm fairly sure it's fixed, it hasn't thrown anymore codes.

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1996 Ford Ranger XLT 245 4.0L OHV V6 4X4 Supercab-No Cats-Chipped-Flowmaster Original 40 Series SI/DO 2.25" Piping/3.5" SS Tips-15x10 Directional Rims W/ 31/10.50R15 Cooper Discoverer ATR Tires-Summit Racing 3" Body Lift-Rough Country 4" Suspension Lift-Rough Country Nitro2.0 Shocks-Memphis 1000W Amp/Two 15" Hifonix Olympus Competition Subs/Vented Box