1988 Ford Ranger Hard Start Gas Fumes

Suggested Repair

Inspect the fuel pressure regulator and replace it if it is failed or leaking, since a blown regulator can dump fuel into the intake manifold and cause hard starting and gas fumes.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a high-mileage 1988 Ranger with an original 2.9L reported hard starting and strong gas fumes until the engine ran for a couple of minutes. It ran normally when warm but also acted up on warm starts. The expert advised checking the fuel pressure regulator, noting that a blown unit can dump fuel into the intake manifold. The owner later confirmed that diagnosis was correct.