Ford Repair: 1987 Ford Ranger Power Issue/Excessive Fuel Consumption, ford ranger xlt, throttle position sensor

Question
Mr. Gorgey, I have a 1987 Ford Ranger XLT 2.9L Manual Transmission with 250,000 miles on it. I started about 10 months ago having run ability problems on the highway at about 55 to 60mph. The truck would act as though it was flooded and I would have to give it alot of gas to straighten it out. About 4 months ago it started doing it all the time and I have large amounts of black smoke coming out of the tailpipe when it acts up. I have replace both fuel pumps, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, distributor, engine coolant sensor, Throttle position sensor, and MAP sensor, wires and plugs to no avail. I had a shop hook up the computer and the guy said the only code was the Engine Pickup Code (hence why I replaced the distibutor. I us to get about 240 miles to a tank of gas now I'm get about 135. I love this truck and have had it for 14 years please help.

Answer
Sherri, from your descriptions I think you have a stuck valve. The black smoke is clue. Once think to check if you get a oil coming out of the exhaust.  I would have a mechanic check for that, as you might need to do a head rebuild.  Thanks!

Sam Gorgey
www.allexperts.com