The engine will not stay running and there is smoke coming from the A/C vents

Tiny
RYAN PRIDE
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 FORD RANGER
  • 3.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 214,000 MILES
Okay, my truck was running fine earlier today, and I noticed what looked like smoke coming from the air conditioner vents. I went to crank it again and it’ll turn over and start but cuts right back off. I can’t give any gas when I turned over it won’t give any gas makes me think it’s the fuel pump. I recently change the spark plugs and it would’ve been running fine since then, I don’t know what to do.
Wednesday, July 6th, 2022 AT 12:29 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,179 POSTS
Hi,

Chances are you did lose fuel pressure. Can you hear the fuel pump running when the key is turned on?

What I suggest is this. If you have a scanner or access to one, check to see if there are diagnostic trouble codes. Here is a quick video showing how it's done:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

I realize most people don't own a scanner, but oftentimes, a parts store will lend one to you.

Next, if there are no codes, the next thing I would check is fuel pressure. Here is a link that explains how that is done. You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Let me know what you find. Also, in the morning, see if it starts. If it does, that could indicate a different issue.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
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Wednesday, July 6th, 2022 AT 9:35 PM
Tiny
RYAN PRIDE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I forgot to mention that I’ve had a PCV check engine light code. I’ve replaced the PCV but haven’t reset the code. Do I need to?

Thank you for your time and your response.
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Wednesday, July 6th, 2022 AT 9:38 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,179 POSTS
Hi,

When you replaced the PCV, did you check the vacuum hose that it is attached to? If that hose is cracked, disconnected, or damaged, it will create a large vacuum leak and the engine will struggle to run.

As far as the code for the PCV, that usually will reset after a specific amount of running/driving. If it doesn't, then suspect the issue still exists. If you do have a scan tool to reset it, do that and see if it comes back.

Recheck the hose to the PCV to make sure it is attached on both ends and not damaged.

Let me know.

Joe
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Thursday, July 7th, 2022 AT 1:01 PM

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