1997 explorer 4.0l sohc no start

[BRADKIA]

i have a 1997 explorer with a 4.0L sohc that i am working on
it will start cold but will not start after that until it sits for quite
a while , i have scanned it and it has a p1116 code (ect sensor)
i have check for spark and fuel and it has both , anyone have any
idea's

 

[2000StreetRod]

check the sensor?

P0116 Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem

The PCM uses the output of the ECT to control the air/fuel ratio. If the engine is warm but the sensor reports it as cold the air/fuel ratio will be too rich. In this case I suggest you trust the diagnostic trouble code and check the wiring to the sensor and the sensor itself. You may have to remove the upper intake manifold to access it. If you do and your upper and lower intake gaskets have never been replaced take advantage of the opportunity and replace them.
I would test the ECT sensor before removing it. The stock thermostat housing that holds the sensor is a poor design. The sensor threaded inserts can spin in the housing causing it to leak. See this post: Thermostat housing reinforcement

 

[BRADKIA]

hi 2000streetrod , i see that the upper intake will have to come off to get to the sensor
but the sensor won't cause it to not start will it ? thats why i was waiting to pull it apart
to see if there was anything else i was going to have to replace like " the cam sensor "
also something new i can get it to start by holding the gas pedal to the floor !!

 

[2000StreetRod]

flooring the accelerator

The PCM cuts off the fuel injectors when the accelerator is floored when cranking the starter. Its similar to increasing air flow when an engine is flooded on a carburetor engine. That's another indication that the air/fuel ratio is too rich. The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is not the same as the temperature sender that drives the gauge on the instrument cluster. The temperature sender on your vehicle has no impact at all on engine performance but the ECT sensor has a major impact. I think the 3rd generation Explorer has a cylinder head temperature sensor that is used for both the temperature gauge and the PCM to set the A/F ratio. According to the ECT temperature vs resistance table a short indicates the maximum temperature and an open indicates the minimum temperature. Look for a broken wire or the connector could be loose. Make sure the PCM connector isn't loose.