97 Explorer difficult to start

[jcmalek]

My 97 Explorer (4.0L SOHC) often takes three tries to start, but then otherwise runs well. I recently replaced the spark plugs and wires, but this didn't improve it. Are there some components that control (for example) the cold start fuel mixture that might be worn out? The car has 188,000 miles. Thanks!

 

[marragtop]

Could be the fuel filter or the fuel pump regulator. Does the fuel pump prime when you hit the key the first time?

 

[fixxxer]

A dirty or clogged up IAC valve could also be the culprit. Does it turn over ok when attempting to start? Once it's started, is the idle smooth?

 

[jcmalek]

It turns over well, and once it starts it idles OK... I suppose it is a little more rough than it was years ago, but not too bad. It does smooth out in a few minutes. What is an IAC valve? How can you tell if the fuel pump primes when I hit the key the first time?

 

[timn8er]

I bought a new to me explorer. I have a 95 with over 460,000 km andthen i found another one for 800.00 bucks with 200K on it. I had a problem today where it would not start unless i gave it some pedel (gas) if i were to let it idle it would stall unless in drive but the rpms would sit at about 500.

this is a mass airflow problem. I took the mass airflow off the truck and sprayed it with throttle body cleaner. this worked like a charm and now starts great,

hope it helps.