1997 explorer jerks right before it turns on

[Luis De La Paz]

My 1997 explorer 5.0l v8 xlt jerk/wobble rite before turning over, when starting. It also has significant power loss and barely accelerates.

 

[Gary Crist]

1. Put a volt meter on your battery (if the connections are clean). Record the voltage.
2. Crank the engine over while observing the voltage (cranking voltage). Record the voltage.
3 Run engine at 2500 RPM. (charging voltage). Record the voltage.

Give the results.
If I understand your post you have a cranking problem?

 

[1998Exp]

1. Put a volt meter on your battery (if the connections are clean). Record the voltage.
2. Crank the engine over while observing the voltage (cranking voltage). Record the voltage.
3 Run engine at 2500 RPM. (charging voltage). Record the voltage.

Give the results.
If I understand your post you have a cranking problem?

The O/P also reported low power/poor acceleration. That points to something other than a weak battery or alternator: bad fuel pump, poor ignition, worn engine, and a host of other possible reasons. If the CEL is on, have it scanned -- there may be a clue there.