Bad E85/fuel sensor

[Noyz81]

For the second time in two weeks, my ‘99 3.0 Ranger has left me on the side of the road. It has good fuel pressure, spark, and the computer was recently replaced and programmed. I put 200-250 miles on it since the last repair and it started shutting down temporarily while driving, again. My mechanic says it is an $1,100 fuel sensor on the frame rail under the truck near the drivers seat that senses the difference between E85 and unleaded fuels, or anymixture of the two. I NEVER run E85 so I am wondering does anyone has an inexpensive repair or bypass to suggest, even if I can only run unleaded? Thanks

 

[RonD]

Yes, there is an option

Google: Ford Flex Fuel Sensor Replicator

Sets computer to run on gasoline only and no CEL(check engine light)

Unplug the bad sensor and plug in the new one, that simple

They only used that sensor for a few years then they change the computer software to use Lean and Rich readings to determine gasoline or E85 and anywhere in between

 

[pjtoledo]

the flex sensor can be monitored. it puts out a fixed voltage square wave, the frequency is what varies as it measures the alcohol percentage.
when the ff sensor failed in my 2000 it ran so rich that it flooded out while driving.
been running a replicator for 7-8 years. first one lasted until about a year ago, still running on the second one.


if you're good with electronics the replicator is a simple timer that puts out the correct voltage and frequency.

 

[Noyz81]

I have recently used the flex fuel sensor replicator for the second time on my second Ranger and it does work great. I appreciate the info