1997 Explorer Issues

[shoreline]

I have a 1997 Explorer Eddie Bauer V8 AWD with the following issues: It started hesitating last week it seemed between 3rd and 4th. Now it is a constant hesitation even at an idle. Also, just yesterday the Check Engine light came on and sometimes it flashes. Lastly, this morning it smelled like something was burning but all guages were fine and there was no smoke or anything.
In the last three years the catalytic converter has been replaced, spark plugs and a tune up.
Any ideas? I do not want to put alot of money into it since it has 118,000 miles on it. Thanks

 

[Blee1099]

I have a 1997 Explorer Eddie Bauer V8 AWD with the following issues: It started hesitating last week it seemed between 3rd and 4th. Now it is a constant hesitation even at an idle. Also, just yesterday the Check Engine light came on and sometimes it flashes. Lastly, this morning it smelled like something was burning but all guages were fine and there was no smoke or anything.
In the last three years the catalytic converter has been replaced, spark plugs and a tune up.
Any ideas? I do not want to put alot of money into it since it has 118,000 miles on it. Thanks

Well first get the truck scanned for codes. The CEL will leave a code. You could try cleaning the IAC & MAF and see if that helps.

 

[shoreline]

OK, I am not a mechanic - not even close so please help me if you can. Where are these sensors and is it something easy to do? Thanks

 

[Lloyd10977]

The IAC (Idle Air Controller) is located on the side of the throttle body, and the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sesonr is on the intake tube near the air filter. Do a search here and you will find several threads about cleaning them. But your FIRST step should be to get the codes pulled so that the car can tell you whats going on and you won't have to guess.

And 118,000 miles should NOT be considered the kiss of death or old age for Explorers. There is still a lot of life left at this point given a little bit of care.

 

[410Fortune]

SEARCH button on this forum is very useful.
If somebody says do this, do that, you can try to search for what they are talking about. It saves time and usually answers all your questions.

Hope that helps!

If the 5.0L has been neglected for some time, you might start by doing a complete tune up.