so recently i let my truck go bone dry in gas (not my option) then as soon as i filled it up i have been having trouble with in 2-5 gear if i push the engine to much it will buck,jerk, and hesitate on free way or on roads..i really dont like a flashing check engine light. if it is at idle i can floor it and no hesitation happens

i have a 96 2.3L 2wd about 222000miles on it..

i have changed air filter, cleaned MAF, put in some fuel system cleaner, and reset comp.

thinking fuel filter might be clogged or something along those lines...need to get my codes check out too

 

Partially clogged fuel filter would certainly limit RPMs under load, and cause loss of power.
When stopped, raising RPMs doesn't increase fuel usage that much, under load RPM does.

For $10 I would just change it.

Yes get the codes, EGR system problem can also cause symptoms you describe

 

got the fuel filter today gunna put it in tomorrow. super cheap even though didnt know that brand. WIX is it.