Having code P0171 and hesitation at acceleration

DARKMATT

MEMBER
1998 FORD CONTOUR
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
113,000 MILES

Recently replaced timing belt and water pump. Set timing with slot tool and bolt in block. Runs good at idle normal rpm. I would expect high idle and racing if it had a vacuum leak. Ran good before belt change. I could not find any information on what position the VVT should be in when setting the timing. I suspect that it is a slight timing issue due to the VVT, but I would think it wouldn’t run if timing were off by even a little bit. If I unplug the MAF it still runs okay but sometimes will shut off when unplugged. Recap: don’t suspect vacuum leak. Fuel pressure 35 to 40 psi constant. Somewhat suspect MAF. Mostly suspect VVT. What do you think?

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

If this was not there before you did the belt but is there now, we have to go back over what you did. Changing the belt would not cause a sensor to go back but if the timing is not set properly it could cause this code. Here is the entire procedure. Please review it and see if there was anything missed. Did you use the cam hold down tool when you put the belt on?

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