1986 ford ranger 2.9 liter 2 wheel drive

did you adjust the clutch after you put it all together

The first thing you need to do is check for fault codes, to do this go here and read the instructions.

ahh the two liter iron duke i had that same truck once great engine although they have a bad reputation for timing issues the timing belt is located behind the harmonic balancer/crankshaft pulley once the fan and crank pulley are removed you should have complete access to the timing cover. open it and its as simple as lining up the confusing timing marks on the crank and cam when you put the belt on and apply tension with the belt tensioner pulley.hope this helps

file pump

change fuel filter. add can of SEAFOAM(parts house) to fuel. It sounds like the beginning of EGS(ethanol gas syndrome). corn liquor substance, water, and clogging. all caused by ethanol fuel.

check fuel pressure

The Bendix drive is bad in the starter. You can either rebuild it or just purchase a new rebuilt starter.
The Bendix drive is what pushes the starter gear into the flywheel the then it will turn the flywheel. When the Bendix drive goes bad the starter just spins/whirls.

its your fule filter theres 2 of them i the 86 ford ranger you need to change them the location of the fule filters are on google just tipe in fule filter 1986 ford ranger location it should pop up there about 8 dollors a peace easy fix and your truck is like new also get a new battey if you havent k have a good day. oh i know this because i own one had the same problem

Hello There

It has a 15.8 gallon tank.

Hope this helps, please don't forget to rate me.

Thanks

thermostat or blocked matrix in rad,evan head gaskets could be on the way out