I just got my 1st Ranger. I figure it has to be something easy.

Story goes: The fuel pump was going out, key on, key off, key on, key off, key on, fires. Then he parked it to change the brake shoes now it has no spark.

I did a couple quick field tests but I just officially bought it. Trailering it home after work. I've been digging online all day and this place seemed pretty helpful.

2.3L 5 speed, 2wd.

Cranks and sounds healthy, not fast and whiney. Verified timing belt is not broken. Using spark tester, no spark on either exhaust or intake side. Supposedly the coils and plugs were replaced.

I cycled the key and checked for pressure at the Schrader valve, it barely dribbles out.

The CEL does light up with key on.

From what I can found here, possibly the crank sensor?

I'm not sure of the no spark and no fuel are related or separate issues. Any input or tests you guys and think of would be great. I dont want to just start throwing parts at it.

If i can figure out the no spark, fuel is easy to solve.

Edit: i picked up the truck after work and decided on a whim to try it. Fired right up. It's been running about 20 mins now and stays running.

There definitely was no fuel or spark. Im concerned as this isnt something that would go away on ita own.

 

Welcome to TRS :)

The CEL coming on with key on means Computer has booted up
CEL should go OFF as soon as engine is turning over using starter motor, that means Crank Sensor is sending a good Timing Signal to computer

Computer has no connection to Starter circuit, the only way it knows to you want to start the engine is when it sees Crank sensor timing pulse, it then starts Spark and 1 second later it starts to open injectors

So watch the CEL when starting for the next bit, if it stays on when cranking replace crank sensor, its easy on 1995 and up 4cyls


You have dual spark plugs which is for extra power, but the 2.3l SOHC Lima engine will run fine on 4 spark plugs, as it did from 1974 thru 1988
Problem with dual spark plugs is that you can never tell when 1 spark plug or coil pack has an issue
So once a year or when ever you feel like it, unplug the 3 wire connector on one coil pack
Start the engine
Should have a smooth idle no steady miss, if it does then you have a bad spark plug or wire on the working coil pack
If it doesn't start or barely runs then most likely a coil pack issue

Then reverse it to test the other coil pack
You can drive it with one coil pack, doesn't hurt a thing
(1989-1994 2.3l used ICM for spark so only the Passenger side coil pack/spark plugs worked while starting, not so for 1995 and up)