1987 2.3L Ranger Idle issue, no IAC, please help.
 

Welcome to the forum

Nice looking 1987 Ranger

Someone sure goofed up in the engine bay though.

First thing I would do is change the ECT(engine coolant temp) sensor, I can't see it in the pictures, it is a TWO WIRE sensor, only used by the Fuel Injection computer, so it can set Choke Mode, this allows engine to run better when Cold, i.e. higher idle, Richer fuel mix and advanced spark timing, same as carb engine's choke plate did.
It is usually located near Thermostat housing, so it can get coolant temp from upper engine area
Reads like this would be the problem if it runs OK after warm up

ECT Sensor has nothing to do with the temp gauge in the dash, that is done with a Temp SENDER, one wire, located at rear of 2.3l engine, just FYI.


You do need to get the air filter setup changed, the way it is now the engine is sucking in warm air from inside the engine bay, so lower MPG and less power, not related to your problem, just a heads up

Idont see a MAF sensor. On my 92 its right after the airbox. Not sure about the first gens. Without it, it would cause issues until your o2 sensor kicked in for the fuel mix. Also, the engine temp thing as mentioned above. I unplugged mine by accident once and the truck wouldnt even start. Are you burning oil at all?

His 1987 could be using MAP sensor instead of MAF sensor
Earlier systems used Engine Vacuum(manifold absolute pressure-MAP) to determine air flow into the engine, called a Speed Density system

MAF(mass air flow) system is better long term and increases MPG with better on the fly data, which is why most manufacturers switched to that type of system

Put a carburetor on it if you are going to eliminate the smog sensors. The old airbox had a Idol Air Control Valve on it without it your vehicle will run like sh!t. Also change the coolant temperature sensor. Honestly you need to lose that intake and put the stock one back on. Unless you go to a carburetor the EFI on old Ford 2.3l don't like to be messed with.