1998 Ford Explorer Rough idle when cold

Tiny
MCAMP0518
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD EXPLORER
Engine Mechanical problem
1998 Ford Explorer 6 cyl Four Wheel Drive Automatic 109k miles

When I first start my explorer after it has sat for a while usually over night it runs very rough and sometimes stalls. I have to sit in it and feather the gas a little bit to keep it running until it warms up a little. After it has warmed up for the day it starts and runs fine throughout the day, with the exception that it sometimes takes 2 cranks to start.
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009 AT 12:06 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,179 POSTS
Hi:
Was the engine tuned-up reciently? Old plugs, wires, rotor, cap can create a weak spark. When the vehicle is cold, it runs richer (more fuel) and the ignition system may not be able to burn all of the fuel causing a rough idle.

Let me know.

Joe
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Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009 AT 8:22 PM
Tiny
MCAMP0518
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you Joe I will try that. I have noticed kind of a rich fuel smell sometimes when its running. Im not sure if it has been tuned up recently, I bought it last year from a small car dealership so probably not. I'll let you know if it works.
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Wednesday, February 4th, 2009 AT 8:04 AM

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