'97 Ranger starting problems

[rickatom]

I have '97 ranger 4cyl standard. Up until recently it has started with the first turn of the key. Then about a week ago, it acted as though it was flooded and I had to turn it over a couple of times before it started. Once started, it would idle fine and drive with no problems. I put in some gas treatment. Started acting fine.
Today, it hesitates to start with first turn. When it acts like starting, it sounds like no power and then cuts off. Repeating to start again, it will then start. I put some STP system treatment in the tank to help clear it up.
It has been alittle hot here in NC so I tried turning on the A/c. It felt like warm air blowing out the vent. Never had a problem with the A/C either.

What are the chances it is the fuel filter if it runs fine once started. It doesnt sound like the fuel pump, BTW changed it about a year ago and have had no problems.

 

[rickatom]

update on problem

I went to Advance Auto parts and got a fuel filter for @8.00. Got it home and proceeded to install. One end running toward gas tank has a plastic clip, easy to remove with flat screwdriver. The other end, facing engine, had a metal connector. I had to go and buy a plastic tool which fits around the tube and slides into the connector to release it from the filter. That costed me $10.00 bucks for a one time deal. Oh well I have the tool now.
Anyway, I reinstalled the new filter, and knock on wood, the truck is again starting smoothly. I had also put in some STP System treatment in the tank. So between the two, I hope it is fixed now.

 

[Tbars4]

...i'm sorry i didn't see this post before but it sounds like you got it fixed...let us know if it still has problems...

 

[rickatom]

problem update

Well I thought I fixed it. I had some work done on the A/C, so it was at the garage. I went to pick it up, it hesitated to start but did. I had to go back to the garage and shut off the motor. When the mechanic went to start the truck, the problem started again. I dont know what it could be. Once the truck is running, it is fine. Idles great and everything. Just won't start right. Mechanic was naming things like fuel pump, which I replaced not long ago , like months, because of faulty sending unit. He will hae to check into it. He said he had no problem with it when they serviced the A/C.

 

[Tbars4]

...these problems are usually fuel pressure regulator, vacuum lines, or battery cable related, besides being fuel pump, and fuel filter which you have already changed........good luck...