Lean code p0171

1999 FORD RANGER
159,000 MILES • 4.0L • V6 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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LARRY ELSWICK
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Engine idles normally. After accelerating to forty to fifty mph the engine starts to sputter rhythmically. I then let off the accelerator for one to two seconds and it smooths out .
Dec 11, 2017 at 5:41 AM
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KASEKENNY
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The fact that you have a lean code makes us think you have a vacuum leak but that normally comes with a rough idle. However, we still need to check it out. here is a guide that will get us started:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/repair-lean-mixture-codes-p0171-or-p0174-on-some-manufacturers

Next here is guide that will help with finding a vacuum leak:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

However, just because there is a lean code does not mean that we have an air issue. This could be due to a lack of fuel which would fit better with what you are seeing.

Let's check fuel pressure and go from there. Here is a guide for that:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Lastly I attached the testing below that we need to run through however it pretty much takes you through what these guides are doing.

Let us know what questions you have. Thanks
Dec 20, 2020 at 10:03 AM