1998 Ford Explorer Rough running

PHILIPR

MEMBER
1998 FORD EXPLORER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
185,000 MILES

Engine runs rough and cuts off on cold starts. Once warm it runs almost perfectly. Replaced 2 front sensors as codes said to, but didn't fix the problem. Engine light on all the time. Engine is a 4.0 liter SOHC. Have been told it is a great engine and also a lousy engine. Has been great for me so far outside this problem.

Thanks for your input.

2 Replies

RACEFAN966

MECHANIC
5,029 POSTS

Ok you say the engine light is on. So if you would call around to your local parts stores and see if one will do a free scan. Have them scan it and write down the codes like P0171 or? Then have them clear them and get back to me with the codes found and I will look them up and see what the Explorer is trying to tell us it wrong.

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Friday, January 8th, 2010 AT 10:26 AM

GREXXX

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I am not a certified mech! I do have a couple questions for you. Is the check engine light on? Yes and you already said that at higher speeds its better, right. Does the motor make alot of noise, now that this is happening, Probably and if not get ready for it. My opinion and thats what it is. Its probably the timing chain and that is causing a problem with one of the valves probably in #5 which could causes the rough idle, but not at the higher speeds. I would do a compression check on the engine. Do not go and spend alot of money replacing o2 sensors, you probably have 4 and thats the first thing they say to do. It might be that time to get rid of it but I know how it is, Im in the same boat right now, wondering whether to fix or sell. Good luck and hope I helped out and let me know what happens. Oh by the way you can check your own codes or clear them by yourself its fairly easy. Check your owners manual. The more input you give the easier it is to diagnos.

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Friday, January 8th, 2010 AT 7:21 PM