1997 Ford explorer Sputtering help! Please!`

[Isiahknowsnothin]

Ok so i have a 1997 ford explorer (my first car) and when i start it up and during idle and between 50-55 it shakes and sputters like a hubba bubba hubba noise. I have to make a 700 mile trip from PA to MI later this month and i need to know if my car will make the trip because i will be doing around 65-70 the whole way there. Also can anyone tell me what the problem might be and if its costly? I'm learning more and more about cars through this one breaking down on me so i don't have very much knowledge on this subject. Thank you guys very much!

 

[yavapaires]

What engine do you have? First thing to check is the spark plugs and if it still sputters, replace the plug wires. Then you can go from there.

 

[mrboyle]

I'd start with a tune up (plugs, wires and fuel filter) and clean the MAF.