My 04 Edge with a 4.0 quit running while I was driving at highway speed. There was no warning whatsoever. It was as if I had turned off the ignition. It restarted in a few minutes, but it quit again as I was trying to get home. It would not restart, and I had to have it towed home. A few hours later, it started and ran fine.

I read the codes, and I got a P0320 which is ignition/distributor engine speed input circuit. Does anyone have any suggestions where I should begin?

 

It sounds to me like its a crankshaft position sensor issue. I looked up testing procedures for that code and it goes into testing the Throttle position sensor, but for some reason I don't think thats right.

Since these trucks are distributor less they count on the crankshaft sensor to determine when to fire.

Disclaimer: This is a suggestion. Because I've never really had experience with this code I'm not 100% sure this is your problem, but to me it seems a good area to look. I don't want you spending money on something you don't need.

 

Thanks, Anthony. You are correct that it is not a throttle position sensor issue. My research indicates that it could be an arcing problem anywhere from the crank sensor to the plugs. I have moved wires around and checked connectors, and I have done something that will not allow it to start. I certainly appreciate any suggestions.

 

Likewise never had this happen but if arcing in/to the block is happening it would seem possible that your passive antitheft system (PATs) engaged at speed. I've set it off more times than I can count when messing with electrics on board and that won't allow the truck to start for a period of time. I have had pats turn my truck off sitting at a light when I was sitting. The theft light came on then went off in 5 seconds then truck turned off.

Also I know for a fact that is the theft system keeps getting mixed signals it will lock the ECU and not allow the truck to start unless it is unlocked by ford themselves.

This may or may not be your problem. If there was no theft light (and its not burned out) then this is unlikely

 

Thanks, C.B., I have never had a theft light, but your experience sounds as if it can certainly be a PITA

 

Found the problem! The harmonic balancer has separated and slipped toward the engine. The outer (pulley) portion of the balancer is rubbing the crank position sensor, and the belt is running on the inner portion of the balancer.

Needless to say, I will be replacing the balancer and sensor. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

 

sounds gnarly. ill bump it back up.

 

Thanks, rangerrunner11. There is nothing complicated about the procedure, but there is not much room to work unless you remove the radiator. I have a harmonic balancer puller set that I borrowed from Advance Auto Parts. The balancer should be here next Tuesday, so the truck should be running by Wednesday.

Any suggestions that might make the job a bit easier would be greatly appreciated.

 

The Ranger is running, and many thanks to those who have posted information about changing the harmonic balancer on a 4.0 SOHC. After I finally gathered up everything I needed, it went smoothly.