Explorer Falls on its Face

[Bmwz389]

Hey guys,

Lately (since the summer began) the truck has been falling on its face left and right. It only happens on part throttle and wot. It doesn't happen under light cruising. It feels like its hesitates. It will shutter, won't have any power, and the whole truck shakes. I thought it might be the tranny, but I threw it out of overdrive and it was still doing it.

Also, the truck will intermittently have a horrible idle. As if it's running on 2 cylinders. It will stall out, idle really rough, and smell way rich. And it only clears out once I put it in gear and drive it.

Anybody have any idea what could be causing this? I'll provide as much info as I can.

Thanks!

- Brandon

 

[MrShorty]

I'd start with a few basic diagnostics. Pull codes (even if the CEL isn't on) to see if the computer has any input. Check fuel pressure to see if there are any fuel delivery issues (including pulling the vacuum line to the fuel pressure regulator (FPR) to make sure the FPR isn't leaking). Check for vacuum leaks.

 

[Kevlar7R]

First thoughts I have... O2 Sensor issues, Dirty fuel system (clogging, low flow, etc.) The intermitten nature would have me lean more towards an electrical issue.

Take it over to autozone and have them pull your codes. That will be a good place to start.

 

[iteotwawki]

This might be your situation

Read Ken H's comments under the Spark Plug & Wires section on the Explorer Owner's Maintenance Reference Page.

Link: http://www.explorerforum.com/Singleton/web/pages/plugs.html

 

[rookie,94XLT]

possibly check your mass air flow meter too had a problem with mine a few years ago made the truck run very rich (lots of black smoke out the exhaust) idle bad n splutter

 

[Bmwz389]

Hey guys,

Sorry I havn't gotten back so soon, been one hell of a week.

I replaced the FPR about 3 years ago because it started leaking fuel on my manifold.

The wires and plugs were replaced 2 years ago, I cleaned the MAFS about 4 years ago, as well as the IAC.

I can check for vacuum leaks, but I don't think I have any, I replaced most of the hoses that looked bad about 5 years back when I got it.

I havn't found paperwork for the fuel filter, but I believe my mom changed it like 4 years back, and the o2 sensor was replaced 3 years ago.

I figured it might be an injector, but its hard to test and intermittent injector issue. also thought it may be a fuel filter.

Does this help anymore? I'll have to try to get the truck coded after work on monday. I don't have it for the weekend.

Thanks already guys!

- Brandon