Engine sputter and die - need help!

[TheMattDaddy]

Hey guys,

I've got a problem with my X, a big problem. It's already been described in these threads, especially T-Bone's (the first link):

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It seems like I just went over a few bumps on a light off-road trail, and boom, "check engine" light comes on and she sputtered and died. Took hell to get her moving again. I kept trying to crank it, but it kept sputtering as soon as it caught and rpms would drop to 1000, then right to 0. Finally managed to make it catch again, and had to SLAM down on the gas just to go 10mph!! The rpms kept hopping around 2000 rpm in first gear and just didn't wanna budge!! I finally made it home after the engine seemed to seep back to normal with no sputtering, and being able to go 45 all the sudden.

I popped the hood, it was a little wet, so I dried everything off. Tried cranking again, but this time it wouldn't catch at all. RPMs jump to 2000, then right back down to 0.

I'm really bummed that she's let me down.. I've just gotta fix her.

So that's where I need some of you guys help. How can I fix it to where its actually driveable again? It seemed like in the threads I listed that this problem is mainly related to the fuel system (pressure regulator, pump, etc.) or ignition. Oh yeah, I've got 3/4 a tank of gas and the check engine light doesn't come on anymore.

Thanks for your help!

 

[TheMattDaddy]

TTT once more

 

[TheMattDaddy]

Hey guys,

After digging around under the car and fishing around the fuel system stuff, I wonder if the fuel pressure regulator might be the culprit.

Here's a good write up on it:

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Think that might cure it?

BTW, I don't think it's the fuel filter, I just changed it about 2500 miles ago.

 

[Jason_25]

I think my FPR has taken a hike too.

What check engine codes do you get?

 

[TheMattDaddy]

Wish I could tell you what codes -- I don't have a code reader. I should try and borrow one sometime.

But, I just went out and cranked her when I got in from work. Came on instantly, just like normal, idling for about 2 seconds, then died. So, tried again and this time gave her some gas. She ran just normal (in park tho.). Rpms smooth, all guages working right. So I let up gas, but it began to die again as soon as I let it drop too far below 1000 rpm. But, like I said, everything ran perfect as long as it wasn't in idle range.

So basically, the problem has now been narrowed to a "my truck won't idle" deal. I'm gonna go do some searching on this, but if anyone has any suggestions of things to check (stuff water could have gotten into, may need drying/cleaning, anything), gimme a holler.

Thanks

EDIT: Alright, after some searching, I'm going to run thru the IAC tomorrow after work. Lots of other threads have stated that this idle problem has originated from it.

Oh yeah, anybody got a detailed description of where's it located or maybe a picture? I've got a general idea.. but I don't want to go poking things that shouldn't be disturbed.

 

[Jason_25]

Have you considered that it could just be a vacuum leak? Have you checked vacuum pressure?

 

[TheMattDaddy]

Nah, but that was on my list to look into. How can I go about doing that?

It was too cold after work tonight to get out and finally get a good look at it, but tomorrow I don't have to work after school, so I'm going to have a mechanic friend over to help my look at it too. Said his explorer had the exact same problem once, and it also turned out to be the IAC.

 

[Jason_25]

Just use a vacuum gauge and plug into one of the vacuum ports on the manifold. Should read around 18-19 steady.

 

[ajevenson]

Another thing you might look at is your MAF sensor. WHen it is not plugged in the vehicle will not idle. Make sure there are no broke or binding wires and that its not wet.