Hi all, I know this subject has been discussed multiple time but I have been unable to find a resolution to my problem. I have a 2000 Ranger XLT, 3.0 flex, 4X4, automatic that was running fine one day, parked it and the next day would not start. I tried a squirt of ether and it back fired out the intake so at first I suspected the crankshaft position sensor and replaced it (twice), no change, next I went to the timing chain and gears, chain was loose so I replaced gear set and chain, no change. New coil, no change. I am not getting any RPM indication on the tach when I crank it if that helps, I am at a loss, my next guess is to check the output of the crankshaft position sensor since the tach is still not registering, thinking maybe a corroded connection somewhere between the sensor and the PCM. Also the battery is fully charged. Thanks in advance.

 

Is the check engine light on? Are there any codes? ...

Also, I was thinking the cam position sensor may be critical in these situations?

 

The CEL is on while cranking, no other codes, I believe prior to trouble shooting it generated a Misfire on cylinder #5 which has since been cleared. I have not touched the cam position sensor.

 

The ether/backfire is alarming. If you don't have a scope I can't think of any other way to proceed to test the cam sensor other than replace it. I suppose you could check for the presence of a signal/voltage with a meter. Putting a live data scanner should tell you if it's working also...

 

I have a scope but havent taken the time to check the sensor, to be clear you're talking about the CAM sensor and not the CRANK sensor, correct?

 

Yes - cam sensor. In short, seems you want to know if the engine is seeing a good timing signal, or when to fire the injector. The crank signal is not enough.