I have a 2001 Ranger Edge 4.0 SOHC
76,000 miles

For the past 2 years I've noticed that when I put extra strain on my engine the truck tends to go to a really low idle (500-600 rpm) or dies. This doesnt happen very often though (2-3 times a year).

For example over the summer in warm temps while I had the A/C going, I started turning onto another street. I was going at about 5 miles an hour so the engine naturally was already at low RPM's. Midway through my turn the engine died. It was no problem I just put it in park and it started right back up.

Recently, I've noticed that when I'm just sitting at an idle in any gear and roll the windows down or turn the heat from off to on full blast that the lights will fade.

All the hoses look to be in good shape under the hood (that I could find). I just replaced that battery 14 months ago.

Any suggestions

 

your check engine light wouldnt happen to be on would it?

 

Happens to me also!!!!!!!!!! Annoying!

 

Check engine light is not on

 

Could very well be a bad idle air control valve. My old Ranger produced similar symptoms long before it started to howl like a fog horn.

Also, have you tested the output of the alternator any time recently?

 

I haven not tested the alternator yet. I have a brand new one in my closet though. Can I just get that tested at an auto parts store?

 

Where is the IAC located?

 

These should help you locate it.

IAC location on ford ranger - Google Search



You can get a new one at NAPA for about $55. It is relatively cheap, so it might be worth a shot to fix the problem.