How to Check a 1992 Ford Ranger Ignition Coil Pack

The ignition coil is an essential component of the Ford Ranger ignition system. The ignition coil transforms the voltage from the battery into a higher rate of voltage, allowing the spark plugs to ignite the engine. If the ignition coil malfunctions or is damaged, it can cause intermittent starting issues or the truck may cease to start at all. This job is fairly easy, as long as you have a digital ohmmeter.

Things You'll Need

• Digital ohmmeter
• Paint pen

Instructions

1. Park the Ranger and set the emergency brake. Turn the engine off and allow it to cool. Lift the hood and prop it open. Disconnect the ignition wires that go to the ignition coil. These wires are on top of the ignition coil. Mark the ignition coil wires with a paint pen to make sure that you keep them in order.

2. Connect an ohmmeter across the small wire terminals by touching the terminals with the two ohmmeter leads, or wires. Look for a reading of 0.8 to 1.6 ohms.

3. Connect the ohmmeter from the ground terminal to the distributor cap wire. Look for a reading of 5,700 to 10,500 ohms. Make sure that you make solid contact with the ohmmeter leads in order to produce an accurate reading.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear gloves and safety glasses to reduce the chance of injury. Take your time and use extreme caution when dealing with your Ranger's high-voltage system.

References

• "Haynes Repair Manual, Ford Ranger and Bronco, 1983 to 1992"; Alan Ahlstrand, Homer Eubanks and John H. Haynes; 1998

Resources

• edmunds.com: 1992 Ford Ranger
• MSN Auto: 1992 Ford Ranger
• cars.com: 1992 Ford Ranger