1st of all I sell parts for a living so I have been able to just through them on the truck with no cost.

2003 Ford Ranger 3.0 Flex Fuel 2wd ext cab

Truck runs great at idle but will not go above 3,000 rpms. It has zero power when you put it in gear and can not be driven. I purchased the truck and was told it needs converters, I have replaced and still have the same issue. If you spray either in the intake it will go like it should but that is the only way. I really think I have an ECU problem and have a matching number one to swap, however I have to get the key programmed for it to start.

Replaced coil pack
Replaced mass air flow meter
Replaced spark plugs
Replaced two rear converters
Replaced ECU but had to swap it back out because of key
Removed and cleaned intake, injection rail and checked for vacuum leaks
Complete compression test 155-160 on all.
Checked fuel regulator and fuel psi

I have a locksmith that will come cut a key (only have 1 key) and program both to the new computer. I do not mind doing so but figured I would see what your thoughts are 1st. I am not a tech but have owned an auto shop and been around cars for some time. I would like to say thanks for any help that will be given.

 

how about wirers

 

I checked the wires and they are new, checked the firing order several times and it is correct.

 

if the 3,000 rpm is while in the driveway then its the computer. It has a 3000 rev limiter while in park.

 

I think the same thing, I tried putting in all the gears and it has the same issue but less power.

Is there a way to bypass the theft system and install this used computer to test?

 

It is very unlikely that the PCM is causing this. I would not pursue that any further at this point. There is no practical way to bypass PATS without investing in a flash tuner that has the capability of turning it off.

You have all cylinders on the driver side reporting misfire and you say that adding ether (fuel) fixes it. If that is actually true, then it cannot be a plugged converter. My question is this: Does it just run a little better in neutral or does applying the ether completely fix it, even under load?

What is the fuel pressure at idle? Does that pressure drop under load?

I assume that you are seeing codes P0304, P0305 and P0306. Any other codes?

When you replaced the converters, was there any damage that you could see inside?

 

the converters looked good,no debris.the fuel pressure is @ 60psi,static,and cranking.the plug on the driver side read extremely lean.the ether allows the engine to rev to 6000 rpm,no problems.i have pulled the fuel rail and it is free flowing.everything has been checked.the only thing left is the pcm

 

Here are some possibilities that I see:

The 4, 5 and 6 injectors are plugged. Not likely but possible.

There is a coolant leak or vacuum or that affects the left bank only. Not likely but possible.

Injectors are not firing on that side. All injectors are powered by a common red positive wire that branches to the two banks. The PCM supplies the ground to fire them sequentially on 6 individual wires.

Oxygen sensor connectors are swapped left for right - don't know if this is physically possible on the 3.0L but it would give a very rich condition on one bank and very lean on the other. DS connector should contain a red/black wire; PS connector, a gray/light blue.

 

i will check the voltage on the wires.the plugs show where the injectors are firing,just not correctly.

Thanks

 

ok... i have the same truck with the same exact problem. took it to the dealer and they told me it has recessed exhausts seats.. i took it apart and wallaa.. needs new heads... got the heads in the shop now and putting her back together on sat. oh yea the truck only has 58000. mile on it...... good luck

 

if yours runs coil packs that could be a possibilty