Tuesday

Ford Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)


Ford DIS System
The distributorless ignition system (DIS) for the Ford 2.3L twin spark plug engine consists of the following components:
Crankshaft timing sensor
DIS module
Two ignition coil packs
Spark angle portion of EEC-IV
Crankshaft Timing Sensor

The crankshaft timing sensor is a dual hall effect magnetic switch, which is actuated by the dual vane cup on the crankshaft pulley hub assembly. This sensor generates two separate signals, PIP (profile ignition pick-up) and CID (cylinder identification). The PIP signal provides base timing and RPM information, while the CID signal is used to synchronize the ignition coils. Initial timing (base timing) is set at 10 degrees BTDC and is not adjustable. Ignition Coil Packs

Two ignition coil packs are used for the 2.3L dual plug engine. The two ignition coil packs are triggered by the DIS module and are timed by the EEC-IV. Each coil pack contains two separate ignition coils for a total of four ignition coils. Each ignition coil fires two spark plugs simultaneously, one spark plug on the compression stroke and one on the exhaust stroke. The spark plug fired on the exhaust stroke uses very little of the ignition coils, stored energy, and the majority of the ignition coils, energy is used by the spark plug on the compression stroke. Since these two spark plugs are connected in series, the firing voltage of one spark plug will be negative with respect to ground, while the other will be positive with respect to ground. Refer to thePowertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual for additional information on spark plug polarity.

DIS Module
The main function of the DIS module is to switch between ignition coils and trigger the coils to spark. The DIS ignition module receives the PIP and CID signals from the crankshaft timing sensor, and the SPOUT (spark out) signal from the EEC-IV module. During normal operation, PIP is passed on to the EEC-IV module and provides base timing and RPM information. The CID signal provides the DIS ignition module with the information required to switch between the coils for cylinders 1 and 4 and the coils for cylinders 2 and 3. The SPOUT signal (from the EEC-IV) contains the optimum spark timing and dwell time information. The dwell time is controlled or varied by varying the duty cycle (duration) of the SPOUT signal. This feature is called CCD (computer controlled dwell). Therefore, with the proper inputs of PIP, CID and SPOUT the DIS ignition module turns the ignition coils on and off in the proper sequence for spark control. CID is also sent to the EEC-IV micro-processor to allow for Bank to Bank fuel control.

Failure Mode Effects Management
During some DIS system faults, the Failure Mode Effects Management (FMEM) portion of the DIS ignition module will maintain vehicle operation. If the DIS ignition module does not receive the SPOUT input, it will automatically turn the ignition coils on and off using the PIP signal. However, this will result in fixed spark timing (ten degrees BTDC) and a fixed dwell time (no CCD). If the DIS ignition module does not receive the CID input during engine cranking, random coil synchronization will be attempted by the module. Therefore, several start attempts (cycling the ignition from OFF to START) may be required to start the engine. If the DIS module loses CID input while engine is running, the module will remember the proper firing sequence and continue to fire to maintain engine operation.


Dual Plug Inhibit

Dual Plug Inhibit (DPI) is a function of the EEC-IV that is only used when the vehicle is being started at temperatures -7° C (20° F) and below. During engine cranking, the EEC-IV will only fire the spark plugs on the right hand side of the engine. When the engine has started, the EEC-IV will send a signal to the DIS module to start normal dual plug operation.


Ignition Diagnostic Monitor

The Ignition Diagnostic Monitor (IDM) is a function of the DIS module. The DIS module sends information on system failures to the EEC-IV which stores the information for diagnostic self test. The IDM signal also is used to drive the vehicle instrument tachometer, and test tachometer for system.

Testing
You can find a good DIS testing procedure using a breakout box HERE. The factory pinpoint test mentions using a breakout box (BOB). You can do the same test without a breakout box. The BOB just lets you connect to each wire non-intrusively. Without the BOB, you have to locate each wire and probe directly into the wire. The pinpoint tests refer to overlays and test harnesses, just read over the test first and get an idea what the test is checking, and then you can do the test without using the BOB and associated equipment.


DIS Break out box

Engine and Emission Devices

What are the engine/emission controls most likely found on a 91 Ranger? I personally call any device attached under my hood an engine device, while technically wrong, does it really matter? If they go bad, my engine suffers. Check your emission label under the hood.

These devices can further be divided into Input (sensor or devices that PROVIDE information, usually to the brain) or output (devices that change some other setting, device or manipulative some linkage or device).

They are as follows:

  1. The battery.
  2. The ACT (Air Charge Temperature Sensor).
  3. The ECA (Electronic Control Assembly)
  4. The ECT (Engine Coolant Sensor)
  5. The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve)
  6. The EVP (EGR Valve Position Sensor)
  7. The MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor)
  8. The EGO (Exhaust Gas Oxygen Sensor)
  9. The TPS (Throttle Position Sensor)
  10. The EEC
  11. The CANP (Canister Purge Soloniod)
  12. The ISC (Idle Speed Control)
  13. The TAB (Thermactor Air By-pass)
  14. The TAD (Thermactor Air Diverter)
  15. The TFI-IV (Ignition control module)
  16. The EEC Power Relay
  17. The A/C and Cooling fan controller module
  18. The EEC-IV (Engine Management System)(the "brain")

91 Ranger 5 speed Transmission

Ford Ranger 5 Speed Trans

Saturday

2.3L Coolant Sending Unit or Coolant Sensor

Before going to the trouble of removing the coolant sender from the 2.3L Ford engine block and testing it, perform the tests presented to ensure that it is the sender malfunctioning, and not another part of the circuit.  Unit is on Left side rear of engine, under cylinder head, near oil filter (see the diagrams).

Steps:
  1. Verify that engine to body grounding strap is good and not corroded.  Bad or missing strap will cause high temp readings.
  2. Check wiring to sensor for damage and corrosion.
  3. Verify full coolant level.
  4. Check sensor: 73 ohms cold, 10 ohms hot. (+/- 2 ohms)

How to removal and install.
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the radiator cap to relieve any system pressure.
3. Disconnect the wiring at the coolant sender.
4. Remove the coolant temperature sender from the engine.
5. Coat the threads on the sender with Teflon® tape or electrically conductive sealer, then install the sender. 6. Tighten the sender to 107-143 inch lbs. (12-16 Nm) NOT ft/lbs.
7. Attach the wiring to the coolant sending unit and connect the negative battery cable.
8. If necessary, add antifreeze to replace any lost coolant, then install the radiator cap.

Sensor Pics (could be either)
2.3 L coolant sensor 
2.3L coolant sending unit










You can also check the unit in a pan of water, if removed from the truck.

Friday

Ford 2.3L engine Notes

2.3L I4 SOHC 8V FI Engine

Check the "years covered" on the parts before buying.

Cylinder Head
PartYears CoveredPart Number
Head Bolts83-01ES72137 (FP)
Exhaust Valve (1.500” head, .3414” stem dia, 4.792” OAL)83-94V3943
Exhaust Valve (1.500” head, .2740” stem dia, 4.8070” OAL)95-01V4553
Intake Valve (1.735” head, .3419” stem dia, 4.787” OAL)83-94V2170
Intake Valve (1.735” head, .2750” stem dia, 4.787” OAL)95-01V4488
Valve Guide (.3440 ID, 2.1880” OAL-spiral reamed & flg)83-94VG1372
Valve Guide (Threaded, .2765” ID, 1.9300” OAL)95-97VG1389T
Valve Spring (1.9800” free height w/ damper)83-94VS1459
Valve Spring (2.0197” free height)95-01VS1647
Valve Keeper/Lock83-94VK205
Valve Keeper/Lock (Hard)83-94VK205R
Valve Keeper/Lock95-01VK287
Valve Spring Insert [(shims) (A=.060” B=.030” C=.015”)83-94259-102A or B or C
Engine
PartYears CoveredPart Number
Connecting Rods (Forging #D42E-AA)1974 - 1997R25BJ (FM)
Pistons - 2.3L (2-2.00mm/1-4.76mm rings, Comp Dist:1.578”. Pin Dia: .9122”
8.7:1 Comp Ratio, Flat Head- w/2 Valve Reliefs)
1977 - 1991H435P
Pistons - 2.3L (2-1.5mm/1-4.00mm rings, Comp Dist: 1.575”, Pin Dia: .9122”
Flat Head- w/2 Valve Reliefs)
1983 - 1994H537P
Pistons - 2.3L (2-1.5mm/1-4.00mm rings, Comp Dist: 1.578”, Pin Dia: .9122”
8.7:1 Comp Ratio, Flat Head- w/2 Valve Reliefs)
1982 - 1989495P
Pistons - 2.3? (2-1.5mm/1-3.00mm rings, Comp Dist: 1.335”, Pin Dia: .9122”
Flat Head- w/2 Valve Reliefs)
1995 - 1997H676P
Oil Pump (4/8/85 and older) (Not For Use w/ Cast Aluminum Oil Pan)1980 - 1985224-41160
Oil Pump High Volume (Not For Use w/ Cast Aluminum Oil Pan)1980 - 1995224-41160V
Oil Pump (4/9/85 and newer)1986 - 1994224-41127
Oil Pump Shaft1980 - 1994224-61160
Oil pump screen1977 - 1985224-12160
Oil pump screen1986 - 1994224-13160


Monday

Ranger Radio and Stereo Wiring Decoded

Installing a new stereo in your Ford Ranger can be a straight forward job. Check your Ranger wire diagram and the physical wires with the color code below.  In many trucks the speakers are damaged from heat and water.  You should check their condition before the job is finished.

Ford Ranger Pickup Truck Stereo Wiring Info
Radio Battery Constant 12v+ Wire: Green/Yellow
Radio Accessory Switched 12v+ Wire: Yellow/Black
Radio Ground Wire: Chassis
Radio Illumination Wire: Blue/Red
Left Front Speaker Positive Wire (+): Orange/Green
Left Front Speaker Negative Wire (-): Black/White
Right Front Speaker Positive Wire (+): White/Green
Right Front Speaker Negative Wire (-): Black/White
Left Rear Speaker Positive Wire (+): Pink/Green
Left Rear Speaker Negative Wire (-): Pink/Blue
Right Rear Speaker Positive Wire (+): Pink/Blue
Right Rear Speaker Negative Wire (-): Green/Orange

Remember to disconnect the battery before starting the stereo wiring job.

Saturday

Fuel injector balance test

Here is a great video on testing your injectors.  Slow at first then he gets to the good stuff, just hang in there. You can also build your own HERE.