1992 Explorer with error code 173

[simonda]

Well, guess what folks. I have fixed the problem. It was in fact the FPR. I changed it this morning based on rereading another post with a 173 problem that was sloved by the FPR replacement and also based on Opra House's comments about my fuel pressure above.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1092184#post1092184

While the description of the symptoms in the post were not quite the same as mine, I felt that at this point it was worth a shot. It runs like new and no check engine light at all despite driving about 150 miles today. Thanks to everyone that helpped me out. I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate it.

 

[simonda]

Problem solved!

I decided to change the FPR based on the comments about fuel pressure and also another thread where the truck was recently fixed after a 173 by changing the FPR and I reset the computer. I have run over 250 miles and much to my surprise-no check engine light. She is running great. No more rich smell and the power seems better on hills. Also, I noticed that the small amount of engine pingging that I used to get on uphills has returned. I think the rich condition eliminated the small amount of pinging.

I guess that the lack of fuel in the vacum side of the FPR was NOT a conclusive indicator that the FPR was good. If fuel was present, it would just be an indicator that the FPR was bad.

Anway, I sincerely appreciate everone's help.

 

[Brain]

Congrats on finding/fixing the problem....feels good to be able to get it done yourself doesn't it.

 

[Opera House]

When I replaced my FPR, my major problem went away. After over 200 miles, it still didn't run perfect. I disconnectd the battery to reset the computer and then everything was fine. Sometimes the computer has a hard time unlearing the things it did to correct a problem and it is easier just to reset it and start over. Do that and the pinging might go away.

 

[simonda]

It feels great to have fixed it on my own. A victory for a rookie. Thanks again to all