Three problems related to engine and engine cooling have been reported for the 1997 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Idle speed rises to 3,000 rpm in between shifts and while coasting with clutch pedal depressed. Does not drop to normal idle speed until vehicle comes to a complete stop. This causes braking to be less effective.
Consumer stated when starting vehicle it idled and would not slow down. Also, while driving vehicle suddenly took off while still idling very high. Consumer took vehicle to dealer 3 times, and each time , the vehicle was put on the diagnostic machine and nothing was found. Consumer was afraid of an accident if this continued.
While driving from home to work at 40 mph vehicle immediately died. Vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who stated that all four valves cracked and engine block broke.