I have a 2002 ranger 3.0 flex fuel auto trans 104,000mi. the problem i have is when the truck sits overnight and the temp is below 45 or so deg. the truck turns over good and the truck will try to start but is will stumble and die. I can get it stareted by holding it about 1/8 throttle. it seems to flood itself because i get a raw fuel smell out of the exaust after it starts. thanks for all the help!

 

Fuel filter?

 

check the plugs, wires, possibly clogged injectors... do these engines even have chokes anymore =P?

 

Definitely check into a fuel filter. Mine did this a year or so ago and that was the cause.

 

Check the IAC as well. If its no functioning it would cause the truck to run rough until it warms up. I know when mine gives me trouble the truck barely starts, does not initially rev up, and the idle lopes heavily.

 

Try this first.

Turn the ignition on and wait for 3-4 seconds. Turn the ignition off. Turn it back on for 3-4 seconds *then* start the motor to see if it fires like it's supposed to.

If it does.. it's fuel related. First step is to replace the fuel filter...

Rich

 

Also check the Mass air flow meter.

 

im having the same problem with my ranger.... im pretty sure its the fuel filter getting clogged up... i havent had time to look at my fuel line, im hoping the fuel filter is inline and not in the tank? any info on that would be nice

 

Should be on your driver side framerail, near the drivers door. It's bolted to the inside framerail about there.

 

easy to change too, on my 94 all i need is a screwdriver and 10 minutes, mine attaches on both sides with clips, the newer ones may need the a/c disconnect tool, but i've never changed one in a newer ranger, so IDK.

 

Done it with both, really about the same for me either way....