1991 Ford Explorer

MLELLIS001

MEMBER
1991 FORD EXPLORER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
13,000 MILES

My Explorer runs fine and idles very smoothly. Up until recently, it has started the first time, every time, as soon as I turned the key. Recently it is taking longer and longer to start. Sometimes opening the throttle helps although doing this sometimes causes a small 'burp' or mini backfire in the engine. This seems to happen only after the car has been sitting for a while (cold). It cranks normally when hot after stopping at a store or getting gas. I live in West Palm beach so it is quite warm. Even with the hard start, after it is started, the car idles very smoothly so I don't think the IAC is the cause. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

1 Reply

JGAROFALO

MECHANIC
489 POSTS

Could be that your fuel system is losing pressure when sitting overnight or for a long period of time. Next time you go to start it in the morning, try this test.

Turn the key to the ON position. Listen for the fuel pump. When it stops, turn the key OFF and wait a few seconds and then turn it ON again. Then try cranking it. If starting is better, the problem lies in the fuel system losing pressure after a long time sitting.