Symptoms
The engine dies or won't restart when hot, then runs again after it cools down, without leaving a trace of the fault.
The fix, step by step
- The Thick Film Ignition module is mounted on the distributor, one of the hottest places under the hood.
- Disconnect the battery and remove the two screws with a thin-wall 7/32 in (5.5 mm) socket or a T20, depending on the screw.
- Slide the module down before pulling it away from the distributor, or it won't come off.
- For a permanent fix, The Ranger Station shows how to mount the module remotely on a finned heat sink from a 1989–95 Mercury Cougar or an Aerostar, trimming fins to clear the Ranger's connectors.
- Don't paint the heat sink.
- On the 2.8, owners also convert to Duraspark, GM HEI or aftermarket ignition.
Tools & part numbers
- Thin-wall 7/32 in (5.5 mm) socket or ignition-module wrench
- T20 driver
- basic hand tools.
Where to buy the parts
Ignition control (TFI) module, 1988 Bronco II 2.9RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Distributor cap, 1988 Bronco II 2.9RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Distributor rotor, 1988 Bronco II 2.9RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Ford Bronco II parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.