Shuts off while driving

Tiny
POKECHOP35
  • MEMBER
  • 1993 FORD RANGER
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 280,000 MILES
My 93 ranger w/280000 miles will just shut down like it has been turned off. If you don't turn off the switch afterward it won't start back up. It will just turn over and over. Turn off the switch and try, it will usually crank right up. My daily commute is about 20 miles each way. Sometimes it doesn't do it but sometimes it will do it 4 or 5 times in a 20 mile stretch. I changed out the fuel relays put a new ignition module on it new plugs and wires, alternator, starter. When it quits, if you try to restart it w/o turning off the switch you can smell the exhaust. I've had the fuel pump checked and it is okay. Recently it has started backfiring after you try to restart it.
Friday, December 4th, 2009 AT 3:34 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
BIGJIM79
  • MEMBER
  • 239 POSTS
Hello,

This sounds like an PCM relay is overheating and shutting down check the relay to see if it is hot which is an indication for failure.

Here is a guide to help you test it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Here is the relay location.

Check out the diagrams (Below)

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers
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Tuesday, December 8th, 2009 AT 1:43 AM
Tiny
POKECHOP35
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
You nailed it I checked out the relay after driving for a bit and it was super hot so I replaced it have not had the problem since. Thanks I love this site.
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Friday, December 18th, 2009 AT 1:03 AM
Tiny
NATHANIEL LEE2
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Could this be the case for my 94 doing the same thing
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Monday, September 30th, 2019 AT 11:44 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Hi,

This is from 10 years ago so they are not going to answer but in short, yes. There is no difference between 93 and 94 with respect to this relay.

I would suggest driving it like he did and then get out and touch the relay. It should be warm but not hot. If it is hot to the touch, I would replace it and see if the issue returns.

If this is not the issue then let's get a new post started with your vehicle info and the specifics about your issue.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new
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Monday, September 30th, 2019 AT 4:53 PM

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