i have a 2002 Ranger edge 3.0 about 5 months ago ihad a problem with the engine turning over but would not start if it sat for over an hour it would start. yesterday i had the same problem went into store and came out 10 minutes later and it tried to start but sputterd and just turned over and over. will putting it on a code machine help me any ?>

 

Welcome to the forum

Yes, get any codes and WRITE THEM DOWN!!!!!!

Computer(PCM) often sets codes in memory but doesn't turn on CEL(check engine light) unless code is repeated.

Warm restart issues can be a few things
3 things allow a gasoline engine to start
Spark
Gasoline
Compression

Compression is mechanical so doesn't tend to be intermittent, so the fact it does restart would mean compression is probably OK

That leaves spark and fuel.
50/50 test can tell you which one is causing no restart
Get a can of Quick Start(ether in a spray can)
The brake power booster has larger vacuum hose connected to the upper intake manifold.
Remove one end of the hose and spray some ether into the intake, be careful not to spray on exhaust, it is flammable.

Replace hose and try to start engine
If it fires, then spark is OK and fuel is the issue
If it doesn't fire then spark is the issue
50/50

You could have fuel leaking into the intake when engine is off, flooding the engine so no restart.
After it sits this fuel evaporates so it will restart.
All fuel injected computers have a "Clear Flooded Engine" routine
Turn key on
Press gas pedal down all the way, and hold it down(this turns OFF fuel injectors)
Now crank engine, it should not fire or start, no fuel is coming in

If it fires at all there was fuel in the intake, keep cranking to dry out the intake

As soon as you release the gas pedal injectors will start up, even while cranking


If you plan on owning any vehicle in the future then I would look at getting a Bluetooth OBD2 reader
They run $15-$30
These plug into the OBD2 port on any vehicle sold in the US or Canada after 1995
You need to use a smartphone or tablet with bluetooth and a free APP to view codes and LIVE data
There are also $5-$10 APPs that have more options, but free is fine for starting off.

These are not a Ford thing or even US car maker thing, it must work on any vehicle sold in the US or Canada as of 1995, a legal thing

Read reviews of the readers and APPs first before buying

The LIVE data can be helpful to see if there is a sensor problem when there is no restart

 

I recently had the same problem. Cold start it would start no problem, but warm start most of the time it would just sputter a little and die. Usually it would take 4 or 5 attempts to get it started. I also noticed an oil leak that kept getting worst. I found that my oil filter was very loose. I tightened it up and it solved both problems. I hope it helps you out.