Explorer making funny noise.

[cwhiting92]

Hey guys. I was wondering if anyone else has had a problem with your X making a rattling noise when at low rpms or when climbing a hill? I chopped my exhaust pipe off right after the cat converter due to rusty pipes. I never noticed the noise until after the chop. The rattling sounds like someone shaking rocks in a can and was wondering if anyone knew how to fix this issue? Thanks!

 

[mr cribb]

Yup.... it drove me nuts for miles, it is the guts in the catalytic convertor. You can fix it by replacement or FIX IT by other methods that aren't legal for discussion on here.

 

[arco777]

Bang on the catalytic converter with something soft like a mallet or a closed fist. If it rattles, the converter's honeycomb has fallen in and it needs to be replaced. It can cause a loss of power due to increased backpressure.

Also check for loose exhaust heat shields.

If it's not the catalytic converter, and the rattle is coming from under the hood, you might have some ping or spark knock due to dirty injectors or bad gas.

 

[Turdle]

Search for "engine knock under load" or " engine ping under load"

The problem is a lean fuel mixture. ECM, fuel pump or clogged injectors are the most common suspects.

 

[mr cribb]

If it's not the catalytic converter, and the rattle is coming from under the hood, you might have some ping or spark knock due to dirty injectors or bad gas.

I like to run seafoam in the tank over this issue.... it is interesting how this issue can cost you so much power.