2004 Idle problems

[SuperDave4x4]

Well first let me say that this is my mothers car and all she has done to it since she bought it new is replaced the tires, air filter, changed the oil, replaced the serptine belt and harmonic balancer.

It's a 4wd with 111k on it and the 4.0 SOHC engine.

Now the problem. It's idling a little rough and causing a slight shake in the truck. It doesn't always do it but I know something is not right.

Things I've checked so far:

-Harmonic balancer
-PCV valve

For the balancer I just layed down on the ground and tried to wiggle it with my hand but couldn't find any play.

For the PCV valve I put my finger under it to try and detect a crack or hole but didn't feel anything wrong with it.

So, I guess what can I check next?

I plan on changing the fuel filter tomorrow if I can find the correct part number.


Any help on the situation is appreciated!

 

[SuperDave4x4]

Well first let me say that this is my mothers car and all she has done to it since she bought it new is replaced the tires, air filter, changed the oil, replaced the serptine belt and harmonic balancer.

It's a 4wd with 111k on it and the 4.0 SOHC engine.

Now the problem. It's idling a little rough and causing a slight shake in the truck. It doesn't always do it but I know something is not right.

Things I've checked so far:

-Harmonic balancer
-PCV valve

For the balancer I just layed down on the ground and tried to wiggle it with my hand but couldn't find any play.

For the PCV valve I put my finger under it to try and detect a crack or hole but didn't feel anything wrong with it.

So, I guess what can I check next?

I plan on changing the fuel filter tomorrow if I can find the correct part number.


Any help on the situation is appreciated!

Add cleaned the IAC to the list of things completed.

I didn't drive the "trac" but idle quality didn't change. I will know ore on the drive in to work tomorrow.

 

[roamer37]

Spark plugs and wires would be a great place to start

 

[SuperDave4x4]

Spark plugs and wires would be a great place to start

That's probably going to be my next step after the filter.

Any recommendations on plugs and wires? I'm a diesel guy so I'm not up to speed one who makes good replacement plugs and wires.

 

[SuperDave4x4]

Well I cranked it up this morning and it's worse. The thing almost cut off while it was sputtering, shaking and spitting.

So that's not the direction I wants this to go haha.

I'm going to change the fuel filter this evening after work.

 

[Sp0rtTr4c]

Mine does this sometimes. I clean my air filter, Iac, throttle body, and maf and it runs perfect afterwards every time. I would recommend changing the plugs to, there cheap and even if it isn't the problem at least you will have new plugs.

 

[Markaprice73]

Autolite APP103 Double Platinum Spark Plug x6
Motorcraft WR-6120 Spark Plug Wire Kit x1
Your 11k+ miles past due.
Check Engine Light on?
+1 on cleaning MAF and Throttlebody with appropriate cleaners.

 

[Markaprice73]

Check the PCV "elbow". http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=314670

 

[SuperDave4x4]

Can I use brake cleaner to clean the MAF sensor? I've read yes and no. I've read not to touch it with anything then read the complete opposite.

I checked the elbow on the PCV valve. I felt under it with my finger couldn't detect any issues.

I'm ordering the spark plugs and wire kit from rockauto next week.

I'm goin to clean the IAC valve again today. Can I soak it in break cleaner or will that harm it? I couldn't clean back behind the actual valve very well at all.

I bought the fuel filter and line disconnect tool but didn't get to change it because I had to go to my girlfriends to cut her grass and weedeat.. Ill be changing it tonight.

Thanks for yalls help so far!

 

[Markaprice73]

Do not use anything but MAF sensor cleaner. Do not touch the wires. Brake cleaner will leave residue and is way too strong for the wires.
Use carb/throttlebody cleaner for iac. The brake cleaner will eat at the rubber. Spray a hefty dose in there and use lots of q-tips. You may also use a drop of clean oil to lube the valve.
Sorry, but go buy a can of CRC throttlebody cleaner and can of MAF cleaner. You will be glad you did.
I have found that only the Anodized aluminum (colored) line disconnect tool works for me. The plastic ones did not.
Don't forget to clean the TB butterfly.
Good luck and don't be afraid to click on the "Search this Forum" tab. Lots and lots and lots of great info here.
Welcome to the site.