1994 Ford Ranger Truck won't start after running with AC

1994 FORD RANGER
157,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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N8CHILSON
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My 94 Ford Ranger has an issue I am having trouble tracking down. When I have driven the truck from point A to B and shut it off it won't start back up until a substantial period of "rest." It doesn't seem to matter how long the truck was on for this symptom to occur nor does it happen all the time. I have narrowed it down and it seems to only happen if I was using the AC. A side note to possibly help diagnose; I recently discovered the filler neck may have a crack or hole near the tank. When I fill it up a small amount of fuel will spill on the ground before the pump shut-off engages, and there is a very strong smell of gas after filling up for a couple days. Thanks for any ideas you can throw my way.

94 Ford Ranger XLT, 6 cyl. Fuel injected, manual 5-speed. 157k
Aug 27, 2010 at 3:45 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
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KHLOW2008
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Hi n8chilson,

Thank you for the donation.

When engine could not be started, is it just cranking and would not fire up?
Is the Check Engine Light indicating?
Have you performed any diagnostics on the vhicle?

As to the gas smell and possible leakages, a visual would have to be performed to verify the leaking point. Look out for signs of clean and dry lower sections of the filler tube froom under vehicle. Gas would stain underseals so that would be an indication of leaks.
Aug 28, 2010 at 1:25 PM
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N8CHILSON
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Yes the engine crank over and sounds normal when it is cranking. I usually have to wait for a period of time, sometimes over an hour, for the truck to finally settle whatever problem is happening before it will fire up again. The check engine light isn't on when this process is happening. I tried to have it diagnosed at one of the local parts stores with a computer, but they told me it wouldn't do any good if the check engine light isn't on.
Aug 28, 2010 at 4:02 PM
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KHLOW2008
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When the CEL does not indicate, there could be no trouble codes so a scan might not find anything.

When engine could not be started, you need to check if it is sparks or fuel that is missing at the moment.

At bottom of post there is a " First Things To Check " link. It has procedures on what to check for.
Aug 29, 2010 at 10:19 AM