1998 Ford Explorer intermitting starting

WESTAX

MEMBER
1998 FORD EXPLORER
V8
AWD
AUTOMATIC
104,000 MILES

My 98 explorer has an intermittent starting problem based I think with the Anti Theft System. Most of the time I can walk away with the key for about ten minutes and it will start. Other times not. I have tried to disconnect the battery thinking this will reset the system and Voila. Today I did the same thing and nothing. I have on two occasions gave the air intake (fuel injected) a shot of ether and both times it started but I don’t want to continue this practice for obvious reasons. Any ideas? New fuel pump 2 months ago. The anti theft light blinks while attempting to start. I have an after market remote start but this doesn’t work either when I am having this problem. When I turn the key on the theft light comes on for about ten seconds then goes out but the car started right after that

1 Reply

JDL

MECHANIC
16,098 POSTS

Welcome to the forum. I hope it isn't your theft system? The first thing that caught my eye, a shot of ether gets you started. I'd use a gage and check fuel pressure while the problem is ongoing. 35--45 psi.

Let us know what you find. I just wanted to add, if it is the theft system, have you tried a different key? There is a procedure in your owners manual about programing a different key.