1996 Ford Explorer Engine Stutters

BTMNK21

MEMBER
1996 FORD EXPLORER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
173,000 MILES

I recently changed all 6 spark plugs and the wires. I made sure to do one at a time so that I could not mix them up. I tested the engine after by reving the engine while in park and all seemed fine.

When I got on the highway and got above 30mph the car suddnely stuttered almost as if I had a backfire, but there was more shaking than noise. When I try to accelerate it happens alot more frequent, especially around 55-60mph. While I was trying to merge the other day and get up to speed I heard a clanking sound from the rear of the car and my check engine light began to flash. I checked the wires & plugs and they are on good. One thing I did not do was set the spark plug gap, but they appeared to already be at the right distance.

What is the problem? Is it my transmission? Why is it only happening at speeds above 30mph?

1 Reply

KERENSELF

MEMBER
54 POSTS

Hi there!

It is not unusual for cylinder misfire(s) to cause alot of shaking but not much noise. - And if the check engine light is flashing, we definitely have 1 or more cylinders misfiring.
Since you JUST did the tune-up I would first make sure that the spark plug wires really are tightly on the plugs. (I know you said you checked this.) You should feel kind of a "pop" when the clip inside the wire slides onto the edge of the plug.
Having the trouble codes read will tell you more specifically what cylinders to check.
The correct spark plug gap is important for good operation. I would also pull the plugs out and check for proper gap with a feeler gauge. Tenths of an inch can be hard to eyeball and I've had MANY plugs come "pre-set" from the parts store and be way off.
If you still have trouble, definitely have those codes read and repost. We may find that there is something else going on.