Hello,

I just introduced myself in the "Introduction" section but this is more technical so I'm going to post here. I just got my first Ranger and it was my dad's old truck. It's been sitting since November because while he was trying to do the spark plugs number 1 and 4 broke off on the driver side. I was able to get the plugs out using an extractor and got new plugs in, and man what a PITA on that driver side. I got the truck started but it runs rough and the alternator seized up causing the serp belt to snap off. I was able to start the car after that without the belt on and it idles rough.

Any ways there are a few plugs that he left unplugged and I'm trying to figure out where they go. The truck does not have power steering or AC. If anyone knows where these plugs go or if you can take a picture of your engine bay that would help.

An unplugged hose right by the oil dip stick



An unplugged wire on the passenger side



And then what looks like a blown fuse by the front of the motor kind of directly in top of where the alternator is. Not sure if this is suppose to be plugged in or if there is a fuse inside of it.

 

No one willing to help?

Ok so I found a used alternator from a 1999 Ranger 3.0L. You guys know if the alternator from the 3.0 will work for the 2.3L?

 

In the first image you posted, you have to plug in a fuel line coming from the charcoal canister and EVAP solenoid assembly. This the fuel circuit line. You can easily recognize the charcoal canister, it's just behind the driver's headlight assembly.
The 2nd image, I don't recognize this part and on the 3rd either.
Hops this help.

 

You are awesome! This helps a lot as I hate finishing someone else's work.

 

Ok I think this is what the 3rd picture is I highlighted it in yellow. Anyone know how it connects and what it is? It's hard to see but I think these are the numbers on it f57e-18801 and pbt-gf30 looks like a fuse.



The 2nd picture still haven't found any info on it but is is an 02 sensor plug? Looks like it because it is a 4 prong plug style.

 

Found more info. Looks like this connects to the first ignition coil and probably is a ground? Here's someone else's pic for reference.

sp2.jpg Photo by TheStig88 | Photobucket

 

What year is your 2.3L ?
In your first images posted I don't see the second coil pack. Normally 2.3L have 2 coil packs. I own a 1997 2.3L and I'm gonna check this cable.

 

Hello I have a 1995 2.3L and it does have 2 coils and 8 plugs. The pictures probably didn't show it well and I was trying to concentrate on the disconnected hose/wire. Thanks for your help.

 

"I was able to start the car after that without the belt on and it idles rough"

I am pretty sure that is something you never want to do...

 

What do you mean? Am I missing something here because I thought the serp belt just ran the alternator. So the car should be able to at least idle until the battery runs out of power because I don't have power steering or AC so it's pretty basic.

 

Not 100% sure but I think it runs the water pump too. I'm still learning...I am going to feel stupid i just know it

 

LOL! No I didn't mean it like that. I appreciate any and all advice as I am here to learn too. Thanks for the input.

 

Here's right! Don't run the car without the sepentine belt, It runs the water pump, the radiator fan too.
If the water pump doesn't work like it should be, the heat produced by the engine will never be dissipated in which case, you could break your engine and you'll be done.
Don't do that anymore... for your safety.

 

Those guys got to it before me. While you probably didn't run it long with no belt, running it at all, especially above idle is not a good idea without coolant being circulated. You run the risk of overheating the engine quickly and then the plugs are the least of your worries. On the subject of those plugs I'm no help so good luck with it.

 

for what it's worth my truck has always had a plug dangling next to my coolant overflow like that. i believe it has to do with an option our trucks don't have. runs fine.

 

Thanks that'll probably help me alot. I know my truck came without alot of options but I like it because that keeps it very basic.

I'm picking up an alternator and serp belt tomorrow and then I'll try to get everything running again. Everyone has helped alot on this thread and I'm very satisfied with the Ranger community. I'll let you guys know how it goes. Thanks...

 

Plugged/connected in all those hoses/wires and installed a new alternator. The truck started right up and ran great with no CEL either. Awesome! The first plug went to the charcoal canister, the second wire did not go anywhere it must be for an option that I don't have, and the last wire went to the coil right where I circled it. Thanks for all the help guys.