I have a 2003 ford ranger v6 3.0l 100,000miles 2wd with running issues. If you just drive around caually its fine. It had a bit of a rougher than normal (to me) idle. It just doesnt seem to be as smooth as I would have it to be. I could very well be wrong this is my first ford. Back to the issue, When you stomp on the gas, pass a car, or go to get on the interstate it bucks and jerks like its running out of gas and tries to pick itself back up so I changed the fuel filter starting with the obvious thing it could be as Im a bit limited to tools and such cause I just moved here. A buddy of mine said he hooked up a fuel pressure tester and drove down the road but only noticed a 5psi differance in pressure change but he said it was a bit higher than normal. Im not sure I didnt see it. I was wondering if it could be the fuel pressure regulator or possibably a fuel pump at an exstream case but the fuel pump is useually a go or no go thing so I wasnt sure. There are no codes present and no check engine light on. Any help would be awesome,
Thanks,
Mike

 

It could be a lean condition as well or ignition problems.

Check for vacuum leaks between MAF sensor and intake. Include all vacuum hoses.
Clean the MAF sensor with a spray can of MAF sensor cleaner.

Check all ignition parts. Start by inspecting the plugs. Or, replace all ignition parts: plugs, wires, coil pack or COPs if that is what you have. I replaced all that in my 03 Windstar at 145000 miles.

Do you have IMRC (intake manifold runner controls)? Inspect the system. Stick your head under the hood while gunning the engine above 3500rpm or so and back to idle. You should see the IMRC move. The Windstar has little white plastic bushings at the linkages. Mine broke, $3.00 at the parts store.

 

Is it possibal for the MAF sensor to have an issue and not throw a code? I will check again for some leaks. If it was wires or a cap wouldnt it be noticed at all speeds? Thanks for the help!!