Check engine light and rough start when it starts

[MFC Explorer]

Not sure if this is the right section but it seemed like the one that fit most.

About two weeks ago my check engine light came on I went and had the code read and the problem is a small vacuum leak. This leads me to two questions.

First, today I went to go for a ride down the street and my ex wouldnt start unless I gave it some gas and then would die as soon as I let off. I tried again and kept it revved up for about a minute or two and then she ran fine but idled low around 400rpm. Would the vacuum leak cause this or do I have another problem too?

And second, I want to try and find said leak. I dont have a smoke machine which makes it difficult is there anywhere that it is common for an ex to develop a vacuum leak? Or is there any other easy way to find it other than checking every line?

Any help or ideas is greatly appreciated.

 

[Clem]

Get a can of non flammable carburator cleaner and spray it around the running engine one small area at a time, hoses, especially where they connect and hang unsupported, injecter bases, intake mating surfaces, any place that might have a vacuum leak. Work slowly. When the engine revs up, you are in the right area, consentrate on that spot till you find the leak.
From past experience, it is probably a cracked hose, but this is not always true.

Ray

 

[MFC Explorer]

Thanks a bunch ill try that later today.

 

[RobertMunson]

Replace upper and lower intake manifold gaskets - same exact symptoms I experienced, changed mine on 2000 Mountaineer 4.0 SOHC - about a 2 hour job - $22 in oem gaskets from dealer. Codes read 0171 & 0174