Ford Ranger starting problem

[ray]

Hi All,
I have a problem with a 1997 Ranger. It's really hard to start, but
after starting it runs great. I was told (after an unrelated repair)
that I needed a new fuel pump. I thought that the repair place was just
trying to hose me because I had never replaced the fuel filter. I
replaced the filter and I still have the same problem. Is hard starting
only attributable to a bad fuel pump or could there be something else
that could be the cause of this problem. The repair place said they
could replace the the pump for $500, that seems a little steep to me.
Your thoughts? Thanks in advance!

[charlie]

Post by ray
Hi All,
I have a problem with a 1997 Ranger. It's really hard to start, but
after starting it runs great. I was told (after an unrelated repair)
that I needed a new fuel pump. I thought that the repair place was just
trying to hose me because I had never replaced the fuel filter. I
replaced the filter and I still have the same problem. Is hard starting
only attributable to a bad fuel pump or could there be something else
that could be the cause of this problem. The repair place said they
could replace the the pump for $500, that seems a little steep to me.
Your thoughts? Thanks in advance!

The possibility of a bad fuel pump exists.
If the engine is fuel injected, as I suspect, the fuel line pressure may
be leaking down when the truck sits. Or you might have a leaking injector.
The major problem in replacing the fuel pump is usually dropping the
tank, etc. The replacement pump for most vehicles usually sells for less
than $150 at a parts store. The more expensive ones are variable speed
and pressure, and controlled by the ECU (Beyond just on or off.)

Early fuel pump failure can be caused by running a clogged fuel filter
for an extended period. Another possible cause is habitually running the
tank below about 1/8 to 1/4.

One sign of a bad in tank fuel pump.
1. No start
2. Smartly/sharply "Whack" the tank bottom with a tool handle.
3. Vehicle starts.
This sequence sort of says that either the pump is bad, or there is a
poor electrical connection to the pump.

There also is a fuel pump relay or two that can be involved.
Age is also a factor, as is the mileage. Both are likely against you
with a 97.

$500 sounds like a dealer price.

[ray]

Post by charlie

Post by ray
Hi All,
I have a problem with a 1997 Ranger. It's really hard to start, but
after starting it runs great. I was told (after an unrelated repair)
that I needed a new fuel pump. I thought that the repair place was just
trying to hose me because I had never replaced the fuel filter. I
replaced the filter and I still have the same problem. Is hard starting
only attributable to a bad fuel pump or could there be something else
that could be the cause of this problem. The repair place said they
could replace the the pump for $500, that seems a little steep to me.
Your thoughts? Thanks in advance!

The possibility of a bad fuel pump exists.
If the engine is fuel injected, as I suspect, the fuel line pressure may
be leaking down when the truck sits. Or you might have a leaking injector.
The major problem in replacing the fuel pump is usually dropping the
tank, etc. The replacement pump for most vehicles usually sells for less
than $150 at a parts store. The more expensive ones are variable speed
and pressure, and controlled by the ECU (Beyond just on or off.)
Early fuel pump failure can be caused by running a clogged fuel filter
for an extended period. Another possible cause is habitually running the
tank below about 1/8 to 1/4.
One sign of a bad in tank fuel pump.
1. No start
2. Smartly/sharply "Whack" the tank bottom with a tool handle.
3. Vehicle starts.
This sequence sort of says that either the pump is bad, or there is a
poor electrical connection to the pump.
There also is a fuel pump relay or two that can be involved.
Age is also a factor, as is the mileage. Both are likely against you
with a 97.
$500 sounds like a dealer price.

Thanks for the response Charlie!
I got a list of mechanics that are close to me and will make some calls
on Tuesday to get an idea about the cost. I guess I'm just going to have
to bite the bullet and get this done. I'm not going to try it myself, I
don't like the idea of messing with gasoline. I don't use the truck much
but it's nice to have when I need it. Have a great day!

[Steve in AZ]

Hello ray,

I agree with Charlie. Some (not all) mechanics will install parts that you
have purchased. I bought a fuel pump from Ebay for my wife's then car- 2001
Mercury Villager. $59 delievered as opposed to 109-129 from the 'zone, o'reilly,
NAPA.


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of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.

Post by ray
Hi All,
I have a problem with a 1997 Ranger. It's really hard to start, but
after starting it runs great. I was told (after an unrelated repair)
that I needed a new fuel pump. I thought that the repair place was just
trying to hose me because I had never replaced the fuel filter. I
replaced the filter and I still have the same problem. Is hard
starting
only attributable to a bad fuel pump or could there be something else
that could be the cause of this problem. The repair place said they
could replace the the pump for $500, that seems a little steep to me.
Your thoughts? Thanks in advance