1996 Explorer 4.0 not getting spark during a warm start | Ford Explorer Forums

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1996 Explorer 4.0 not getting spark during a warm start

FordSHO8991

Member
Joined
April 7, 2011
Messages
18
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City, State
Cumberland, RI
Year, Model & Trim Level
2002 Explorer XLS 5-speed
My 1996 Explorer 4.0 4x4 is driving me nuts! It does not get spark when I try to start it when warm. I've already ruled out fuel issues or anything of that sort. No codes stored either. It does not do it all the time, its intermitent. There is no pattern to this either. The spark plugs and wires are two years old, the crank sensor and coil pack are 2 weeks old. I have also taken apart every electrical connection under the hood, cleaned with electrical parts cleaner, and used dielectric grease to no avail. The only thing I did that made this issue go away for about a week was I took apart the large electrical connector on the drivers side of the engine compartment that has about 30 wires going into and out of it. One of the large pins that are in each corner of it was really corroded so I thoroughly cleaned it and put it back together. Now this issue is back with a vengeance! At first taking apart that connector and reconnecting it would make it start. Now that doesn't even help. The truck otherwise starts no problem when cold, runs excellent, and is in sound shape mechanically and wiring wise. On a side note, I recently also replaced the fender mounted starter solenoid and the starter mounted solenoid. The clip on wire that connects to the starter mounted solenoid would fall off, obviously preventing it from starting. Said clip got replaced with a ring terminal and it is now bolted to the solenoid to prevent it from falling off. I have this posted here in the 911 because my girlfriend and I can't share one vehicle, our work hours and job locations are too conflicting. We also can't get rides from anyone, nor can we borrow a vehicle from someone else, no one has a spare car. But anywho, any info is greatly appreciated!
 






Turned out to be a faulty engine coolant temp sensor. If anyone has a similar problem out there in the forum, check this often overlooked sensor, it will save you a lot of anger and frustration! If anyone would like to know how I tested the sensor to find out it was faulty, feel free to ask!
 






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