97 XLT 4.0 OHV. Missing on Accel. Help!

[papp]

Hey there Ford aFFectionate Friends From aFar. . . .

My stock 97 XLT 4.0 OHV 4x4 eXx is giving me some issues. (107k)

*Q* Moving slowly through the revs on the road or in Neutral is wonderful. Purrs like a Big FAT4$$3|) cat. But, when I give it the GO :fire: it misses and *slightly* boggz. I read and read, and did the following.

a. Cleaned the MAF with electronic parts cleaner from Checker Auto.
b. Vacuumed out the stock airfilter, which wasn't even really dirty - lots of light showing through.
c. Seafoamed an entire can through the PCV valve inlet on the side of the intake manifold. A decent amount of smoke.
d. Had the IAC replaced about 1.5 years ago when it was humming a bunch, so left that alone.
e. Carb and Choke cleaned the inside of the already rattly PCV valve.
f. Replaced the Fuel Filter.
g. Reset computer via terminal disconnect for 20 min.

Since this, it moves a fair amount faster, mostly after the fuel filter replacement, but you can still hear/feel it missing/bogging a bit when you step on it. Just feels like you're not getting that smooth accelleration.

I should also say that I've NEVER gotten a Code on this car, so that's good I guess.

Should I check my 02 sensors? Via what method? Or take a fuel pressure reading? Test my fuel pump relay? Drink margheritaz and just sell the car like it is?

I'm just trying to get it in top condition to sell (looking for around $4300). I drive 80miles a day, and the 14-17 I get with this on the highway is toooo expensive.

Thanks for the help in advance.

 

[konaboy]

When's the last time the plugs and wires were changed?

 

[papp]

Plugs - 1.5 years, and haven't done the wires yet. Should i just spring for them?

 

[south59]

I would definitely replace the wires, good luck!

 

[dogfriend]

Also, check the resistance of the coil pack. Mine was slightly higher resistance than spec and I was getting a slight miss on uphills and when towing. You want to test the coil pack before replacing because it is about $110 aftermarket.

 

[karl_burns]

I'm facing the same thing. I've got a new fuel filter to install, but will wait for the blizzard to pass before replacing.
How do you test the coil pack?
Karl

 

[papp]

I bought wires, about to install them. However, after sitting over night, my baby doesn't even idle smooth. It's missing at idle, and more on accell now.

Hopefully this will eliminate the problem, as I posted the car for sale last night, and someone wants to look at it today!

Overconfident, not smart.

Anyone recommend sensors that I haven't checked yet?

PaPP

UPDATE: Installed the new wires and plugs with no change. It's looking like a coil issue, but I might take it to a local shop to have them do the rest, I just don't have the time to keep spending on it. Suggestions are still welcome though! I'll check the forums again before I drive it to a shop.

Thanks for all the help so far guys.

 

[dogfriend]

How do you test the coil pack?
Karl

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=96320&highlight=coil+pack

 

[papp]

SOOOO after a night of sleeping, I get back and try to take it to get it washed, and the x won't even IDLE straight.

Accelleration was horrible, and almost a joke at 55 mph.

Sent it to a local shop at work, they ran a scan and said that the #2 cylinder injector wasn't opening!

I asked them if it needed replaced, and they said it simply needed some "encouragement." A small rap or two with a hammer, and she ran like a beast. . . . $150 later.

No biggie, putting it back up for sale for $4700. Any takers?

Thanks again for the help, I guess the coil is fine.