1993 Ranger very hard start after sitting

Maintenance/Repairs
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1

My truck (1993 Ford Ranger 2.3L 2WD) is just as reluctant as me to get going in the morning. I’ll turn the key and it’ll crank away and do nothing. If I press down the gas while turning the key, I’ll eventually hear a sputter, then another, then another getting faster and faster until the thing finally starts, usually takes 30-45 seconds. Starts fine for the rest of the day.

Any clue what causes this or what I can do to make it happen less?

I replaced all 8 spark plugs fairly recently. I had a loose battery connection I thought might have something to do with it but I cleaned and tightened it and the problem persists. It also likes to burn oil but that’s less of a problem for me right now.

Additional info: I bought the truck secondhand but I’m fairly certain it’s had the engine replaced at some point. Also had an aftermarket exhaust installed.

2

The next time the truck sits, turn the ignition to on so the dash lights come on for two seconds, and then turn the ignition off.

Repeat this a half dozen times and then try starting the engine.

If the engine starts right up, it points to a problem with the anti drain-back valve in the fuel pump assembly.

Tester

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3

Will do. Thanks!

I’ll post an update in the morning.

4

When was the last time your gas filter was replaced?

5

Alright, update:
I tried turning the ignition several times and that seemed to help a little. Still had to go through the whole process but it seemed to go quicker. That was yesterday.

Today I tried again, but this time it wouldn’t start at all. On a couple tries I heard a single putt come out the back but other than that, the starter just cranks away to no avail.

Any thoughts?

6

I couldn’t tell you. Over a year ago, if ever. I’ve only had the truck for just under a year now.

7

I expect you have low fuel pressure for some reason. A fuel pressure test would confirm. You could also try spraying some starter fluid in the air intake as a test. If it starts and runs briefly, you’ve confirmed the problem is lack of fuel, consistent w/low fuel pressure. If so, probably all you need is a new fuel pump. Good idea to have the fuel filter replaced at the same time.

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