2001 Ford Ranger. 2.5, 4 cyl., 5 speed 148,000 miles.
This is a delivery vehicle we have had since new. It has been incredibly reliable. We did replace the fuel pump 30 or 40,000 miles ago.
We hardly use it any more, but it is stored indoors. In the mornings it has not failed to start, but a lot of times in the afternoon when we go to bring it back in, it cranks just fine, but wont start.
I replaced the fuel filter, and though that was the problem, as we did not have any issue for a week or so, we drove it around, and it seemed to run better than it had in a while. Now, its back to starting in the mornings, and at times not in the afternoon.
I tried listening to the fuel pump, but honestly I dont hear anything even when it starts. I have a code reader, and there are no codes.
Any ideas?
Thanks.

 

Welcome to the forum

You need 3 things to work for a gasoline engine to start
Spark, at the right time
Fuel, in the right mix with air
Compression, above 120psi

Both coil packs and all 8 spark plugs are used for startup so spark wouldn't be the issue, its possible the computer has a problem but extreme long shot

So you are down to fuel or compression
Compression is mechanical, so not very likely to be intermittent

Fuel, relies on electrical mostly, and some mechanical, i.e. injectors
But all 4 injectors would have to fail at the same time for a no start........................not likely

Not sure why you can't hear the fuel pump run for 2 seconds with key on, its not quiet
Turn key on and off as much as needed to Hear it, you need to know this HUMMMMM

If the replacement fuel pump was a Motorcraft model then it should be fine, if a 3rd party pump then thats most likely the problem, 1 to 4 years is expected

The 2.5l(and 2.3l) Lima engines did have an uncommon but known issue with TPS(throttle position sensor)
Next time there is a No Start, unplug the TPS's 3 wire connector, then try to start engine
A short in the TPS can turn off fuel injectors during cranking, its called Clear Flooded Engine mode

 

I finally just did hear the pump, so now I know what to listen for. Its starting now, so will have to wait. I have an old fashion induction timing light that I will use to check on spark, and will listen for pump as well. The TPS thing is kind of intriguing, I will check on that as well. Is the tps, the connectorr at the top of the air plenum just ahead of the egr?
Thanks.