Ok Guys, Im needing a little help here. I recently purchased a 98 Ranger with the little 2.5 in it, to use as a truck for my small business. I am having some minor problems with it, and any feed back will be much appreciated.

Synopsis:

98 Ford Ranger
2.5 Inline 4
5 Speed
A/C
Power Steering

Problem:
At Idle(Stationary) temp gauge will go up mid ways on the gauge, in the "normal" zone.

But once I start cranking the RPM'S, You can literally watch the hand drop on the temp gauge.

This kind of worried me, so immediately I researched, and decided it was probably the thermostat, or one of the two temp. sensors.

So first I replaced stat and gasket. Only to end up worse than I started. The gauge quit functioning period.

So I replaced BOTH sensors located on the housing, and guess what?

I am back exactly where I have started.

This is really puzzling the crap out of me. I honestly do not know what else it could be, other than the gauge face itself.

Please help me.

Low temps=Carbon=Spark Plugs=Fuel Economy=Maintenance=Money!!!


ADD::: THE HEATER IS NOT BLOWING HOT AIR WHILE IDLING OR CRUISING.

Thanks and God Bless!!!

 

You need a real thermometer to establish what the temps really are. Indash temp guages are worthless.

Engines run by making tiny explosions, a byproduct is heat.

How is your fuel economy?
Is it throwing any codes?
Any other reason to believe anything it wrong other than indash coolant temp gauge?

 

The only thing that can cause this is a faulty thermostat. When it is stuck open, coolant will never heat up since it is constantly flowing through the radiator. When working properly, the t-stat is closed during warm up and then will open and close as needed to maintain no less than ~180 degrees. If it will not heat up then your t-stat is stuck open. Maybe the new one is busted too?

 

The heat does not work. And Ive got a code "P0401" which relates to the EGR.

The plags were fouled and gapped at what must have been, .065...when they should be gaped .042-.046.

I think both problems could be a result in the truck not reaching proper temps.

Remind you that I just purchased this truck...


Other than this....It runs like a dream. It shifts out fine...etc.

 

just a suggestion try changing anti freez

 

SOLVED::::)))))

NEW THERMOSTAT WAS BAD! THIS IS THE 4Th Bad Thermostat I have ever purchased @ Advance auto in 2 years. From now on, Motorcraft parts ONLY!!!!