I have a 94 Ranger 4x2 with Auto and 2.3L with approx 152k miles that I got recently (cheap) at auction because it would not start/run (electrical issues) their words.

When I got it home I realized that the computer was missing in addition to the trans cross member.

Presently I take the computer out of my Mazda B2300 2.3L 5 speed at just over 360k miles to use as a temp computer until I get it running, then will get a computer for a truck with auto trans and get the cross-member and other missing parts.

Based on other posts of no starting I have done the following, shot starting fluid and it appears it wants to run, then dies. I have not had anyone to turn key while I spray the starting fluid.

It has no Fuel injector pulse (also tried unplugging Throttle position sensor).

It have 40-45 psi at fuel rail fuel pump appears to be working as it should.

 

Pre-'95 Rangers used the EEC-IV computer(EEC), 60-pin.

They also used a distributor or Ignition Control module(ICM), 2.3l(and 4.0l) used ignition module.
(in 1995 Ford switched Rangers to EEC-V computer which had ICM inside)

ICM problems were not uncommon on the 2.3l.
The spark and fuel injectors are timed by the CKP(crank position) sensor, this sensor connects to the ICM, the ICM then passes on this sensor pulse to the Computer for injector timing, PIP signal.
If engine starts and then dies by manually adding fuel then you have spark so CKP sensor is working, but no fuel is being provided by fuel system.

If you have fuel pressure at the rail then there are 4 plugged injectors, lol, long shot, or there is no power at the injectors or computer is not providing injector Grounds.
All 4 injectors share a common 12volt wire(red wire), test an injector for 12volts with key on.
The 12volts comes from EEC Relay, this relay powers the EEC but also ICM and fuel injectors when key is turned on.

The Computer provides the Ground for each injector, thats is the injector control, the ground.
The computer waits for the PIP signal from the ICM before grounding any injectors.
Without PIP the computer doesn't even know you are trying to start engine.

It could be the wire from ICM to computer is bad or the connection at the ICM or computer is bad, ICM is most likely place to start, most auto parts stores can test Ford ICM, they do it for free.

ICM is on the front of the intake manifold.

CPS(cam position sensor) is used to fine tune fuel injector timing, if CPS fails the computer will switch from Sequential fuel injection to Batch fire injection, this can lower MPG slightly, but can't cause a no start.

 

Thanks for the reply, Will get it tested.

One question I will have when I go to buy a computer is how do I tell if I have California or just Federal emissions on this truck ?

 

Stickers on the rad support and also sticker on the drivers door rear.

Have a look here, 2nd post: https://www.ranger-forums.com/4-0l-o...issions-65517/

1st picture is door sticker, 2nd is rad support sticker



I forgot to add in the above post:
Your 2.3l has dual spark plugs and coil packs.
But what most don't know is that ONLY the exhaust side spark plugs and coil are used when cranking engine to start it, intake side plugs and coil do not start working until engine is above 400rpms.
Just a heads up for future use.