I just picked up a 94 ranger this week. I've been having some trouble getting it to start on a regular basis. After sitting for a couple hours in the cold it will not start on the first or second try. Most of the time it will start right away on the third try. I bought a new battery today and put that in but it hasn't changed anything at all, still having the same exact problem.

Once its started as has run for any length of time it will start up again right away after turning the truck off. Also I noticed after getting it to start for the first time if i hit the gas the engine will studder and almost die. It will do this if I touch the gas for about the first 10 seconds after starting for the first time.

Anyone have any idea what the problem could be based on these symptoms? Thanks for the help

 

So when its not starting, is it turning over and just not starting, or will it not turn over at all?

 

its turning over and sounds like its almost about to start. It will start on the third time right away almost like clockwork

 

try some dry gas you may of gotten some water in your gas

 

I thought the same about the gas. It was on E when I got it so I brought a can to the gas station and filled it up with 3 gallons (havent had a chance to change the title and register it yet so its not on the road yet). That put me at about a 1/4 of fresh gas and I still have the same problems. Thanks for the quick responses


EDIT: I also have a very loud squealing noise while it is running. I thought it just needed a belt but after doing some research it may be camshaft synchro that seems to be a common problem on 3.0. Can the camshaft synchro cause start up problems?

 

can someone clarify whether or not the 94 3.0 ranger has the camshaft synchro? I've seen a couple articles saying no but most parts sites say they fit 94 rangers