2000 Ford Explorer idle problems

Tiny
TTBRICKE
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  • 2000 FORD EXPLORER
Electrical problem
2000 Ford Explorer 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I have a 2000 ford explorer with a 4.0. I changes the idle air control valve, MAF, and had a complete tune-up. My problem is that the truck revs, (idles very high) at times and then almost dies, then repeats the process again and again. What could be causing this, Also not vacuum leaks.
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Saturday, March 13th, 2010 AT 8:30 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
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Is the check engine light on? Are you sure the intake isn't leaking?
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Monday, March 15th, 2010 AT 1:48 PM
Tiny
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The check engine light is on. Took it to autozone and they said the code means I need a new o-e muffler. I think this is incorrect, as I just started the truck and let it run for a couple of minutes and noticed a puddle under the exhaust with vapors coming out. I think it may be a leaking intake gasket, but I sprayed carb cleaner on the gaskets and there was no change in idle.
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Monday, March 15th, 2010 AT 6:35 PM
Tiny
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Chances are the water you are seeing is condensation. WHen the exhaust is hot and you shut the engine, the cooling of the system and the lack of air flow causes condensation, When you start the car, it comes out.

Joe
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Monday, March 15th, 2010 AT 9:09 PM
Tiny
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But, do you think it could be the intake gasket or head gasket?
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Monday, March 15th, 2010 AT 9:32 PM
Tiny
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If you are seeing white smoke from the exhaust, then I would say head gasket. You could preform a compression test to see if there is low compression in one or more cylenders. Also, does it appear as though there is coolant mixing with the oil? I may have already asked that.

Joe
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Monday, March 15th, 2010 AT 9:57 PM
Tiny
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When I drive the truck it has plenty of power. There is only a little white smoke, but a lot of water vapor. Im leaning more toward intake gasket failure. What do you think. Also, the oil looks really dark brown, like melted chocolate, but doesnt smell like antifreeze.
Thanks.
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Monday, March 15th, 2010 AT 10:20 PM
Tiny
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The dark oil just sounds like it needs changed. If the white smoke could be steam and goes away as it warms up, then you are most likely right.
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 AT 6:30 AM

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