1987 Ford Ranger Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Guide to Finding and Troubleshooting

If you own a 1987 Ford Ranger with a 2.9L V6 engine, the fuel pump relay is located on the passenger side of the engine bay, mounted on the inner fender near the air filter box. This small black relay powers the fuel pump when you turn the ignition key and is a common cause of no-start issues. Before replacing any major parts, always check the fuel pump relay first—it's the easiest and cheapest fix.

Where to Find the Fuel Pump Relay on a 1987 Ford Ranger

The fuel pump relay on a 1987 Ford Ranger 2.9L is positioned on the passenger side inner fender, right next to the air cleaner housing. You'll see two relays mounted together: one is the fuel pump relay (usually with a green connector), and the other is the EEC (Electronic Engine Control) relay (usually with a brown connector) . The relay looks like a small black box, similar to a wall phone charger, with small coils on one side that plug into the wiring harness .

To access it:

  • Open the hood and look toward the passenger side fender.
  • The relay is mounted on the front side of the shock tower, on the inner fender above the fender wall .
  • On some models, it may be under a plastic cover or tucked under the engine fuse box .

Why the Fuel Pump Relay Matters

The fuel pump relay is a critical part of your Ranger's engine control system. It supplies electricity to the fuel pump when the engine is being started and when it's running. When you turn the key to the "start" position, the relay sends power to the fuel pump. When you turn the engine off, the relay shuts the pump down . If the relay fails, the fuel pump won't get power, and the engine won't start.

How to Test if the Fuel Pump Relay is Working

  1. Listen for the pump: When you turn the ignition key to the "on" position (without cranking), you should hear the fuel pump run for about two seconds. If you don't hear it, the relay may be bad .
  2. Feel for the relay: Have someone turn the key while you touch the relay. You should feel it click on and off .
  3. Check for voltage: If you have a voltmeter, test the output terminal of the fuel pump relay. You'll need a helper to turn the key, because the ECM only supplies voltage to the pump for two seconds if the engine isn't running .

Other Common Fuel System Issues on the 1987 Ranger

If the relay is working but the truck still won't start, check these other components:

  • Inertia switch: Located under the carpet on the passenger side footwell inside the cab. Make sure it's not tripped and that you're getting voltage through it .
  • Fuel pump pressure: Test the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. If fuel squirts out with high pressure (30-40 psi), the pump is likely working .
  • Corroded wires: The wires to the fuel pump relay can corrode, especially on older trucks. Check the connections at the relay and the ground wires .
  • Dual fuel tanks: If your Ranger has dual tanks, there is a fuel pump in each tank and a high-pressure pump on the driver side frame rail behind the fuel filter .

Recommended KEMSO Fuel Pump Upgrade

If you need to replace your fuel pump, consider upgrading to a KEMSO brand fuel pump. KEMSO is a trusted aftermarket manufacturer that offers high-performance and OEM replacement fuel pumps for a wide range of vehicles, including Ford Rangers. Their pumps are designed to deliver more flow than stock OEM pumps—often 20% more at 43 psi—and are compatible with both gasoline and E85 ethanol fuel . KEMSO pumps come with a lifetime warranty, and each pump is individually tested for quality control . Whether you're looking for a direct replacement or a performance upgrade, KEMSO provides a reliable solution backed by US-based technical support. Visit their website to find the right fuel pump for your Ford Ranger: https://www.kemsoracing.com/.

Final Tips for Troubleshooting

  • Start with the relay: It's the most common cause of fuel delivery problems on the 1987 Ranger and the easiest to check .
  • Replace both relays: If you replace the fuel pump relay, consider replacing the EEC relay at the same time, as they are both prone to failure .
  • Check the fuel filter: If you replace the fuel pump, also replace the fuel filter(s). The 1987 Ranger may have a canister filter on the frame rail .
  • Use a poor man's test: Push the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. If fuel dribbles out instead of spraying with force, you likely have a pump or pressure issue .

For more information and to purchase a reliable fuel pump, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/.


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