Stalling when the outside temperature is 70F

1997 FORD RANGER
160,000 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
DAVID GIRELLI
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
When the outside temperature is 70F or above the truck stalls going down the road or coming to a stop light or turn right or left turns. No codes when I plug in my pocket scanner.
Mar 5, 2022 at 4:49 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

This could be due to a leak in the intake gasket. The leaks on the intake gasket can make the engine run too lean and stall.

So, you might want to check for the leaks in the intake gasket.
One way to check for leak is to spray carb cleaner at the base of the manifold (with the engine at idle), if there is leak the engine will react to the cleaner and the idle will increase. Then it will go down after the chemical is burnt off.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-intake-manifold-gasket

I have attached diagrams below for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.
Mar 5, 2022 at 12:47 PM
Avatar
DAVID GIRELLI
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thanks for that info and diagrams, I tried spraying cleaner with engine running and no reaction. Any other ideas please?
Mar 6, 2022 at 11:04 PM
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Do you have any idling issues?
Or does it only have issues as the temperature rises?
When the temperature rises does the truck idle poorly?
Mar 7, 2022 at 1:00 AM
Avatar
DAVID GIRELLI
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Idle issues are when the outside temperature rises and when coming to a stop sign or turning. I took the intake temperature sensor out and checked continuity, no continuity.
Mar 7, 2022 at 2:15 AM
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
The intake air temperature should show resistance if you check the pins. If it is shows out of limit then there is an internal fault within the sensor. However not sure that will trigger this type of engine stall. Let me do little more research and see what I can find.
Mar 7, 2022 at 12:35 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
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.