Hard start when hot..Classic Explorer (Exploder) problems..So I thought:( HELP!

[fireballkiller]

Hi..Im stumped. I have replaced the IAC (been acting up for some time). Adjusted TPS to correct voltage, and performed WOT test(cleared it up a little). And cleaned MAF. Cleaned all connections. Cleaned all Relay connections, Cleaned out Fuel filter, have not check FPR, checked fuel pressure (30 PSI running, 10 PSI key on position) Here's the problem: I replaced plugs with Iridium Plugs and new wires, also did an oil change. Vehicle ran AMAZING for about 2 weeks. Than suddenly out of nowhere the CEL comes on. It either is a VERY hard start when warm, after driving, or somewhat hard start when warm.Once it starts it runs BEAUTIFUL, idles great, throttle response amazing, gas mileage whats expected. CEL still on. Here's the interesting part, while driving down the road the CEL will suddenly go off, however, it will not shift gears at 55MPH, and im running 2500RPM's at 55MPH. Then the light will come back on and it will finally shift, then im running 1800RPM's at 55MPH..I cant afford to have codes run because I spent all my stupid money on the IAC motor (124.00).PLEASE HELP! I'm taking a 2000 mile trip soon, and I really want it running without the stupid hard start (Its really not good for the starter, which by the way is also brand new, and so is the battery)..hope that wasnt to confusing...thank you..

 

[safn1949]

Go to advance or another parts place,they will run the codes for you.Then post them here because with out them it's almost impossible to say.

 

[Joe Dirt]

...or click the link in the bottom of my signature and do it yourself with a paperclip!

 

[fireballkiller]

Unfortunately mines a 96, so I guess I have the OBD-II..I will just have to take it and get it read..Its a pain because I live 30 to 40 miles from the nearest town..and I think about 60 miles from Autozone..But at this point I think its my only option..I have cleaned EVERYTHING, FPR is fine, no vaccume leaks anywhere, Fuel filter brand new, I just hope its not the 02 sensors..It's doing something kind of different now that ive cleaned up all these things..It starts up great when cold, idles beautiful, however when hot if i shut the engine off and try it right away, or even 3 to 5 min. later, it also starts up great.(though it idles at 2000 for a split second , then calms down to about 1000 or 900) if I wait any longer than that, forget it..It will start, but just for a second then die if I hold the throttle wide open, then obviously it smells like it's flooding..I wait about 20-30 min. boom, fires right up. The other thing is the CEL doesnt come on for like 5-10 seconds after the engine is running..I miss my 86 Toyota

 

[rhauf]

the throttle position sensor could be the culprit. that would explain not shifting, and possibly hard starting as well.

but as others have already said, pull codes.. this will tell you instantly. go to autozone or somewhere they'll do it free

 

[fireballkiller]

Thats interesting that it would explain the not shifting...I guess that will be my next 70 dollars to spend...I will find the nearest AutoZone and have them do it before I replace it though..thank you so much for the advice, will report back with the codes...

 

[Joe Dirt]

Ah ok... The tag under your name says '94... Sorry 'bout that!

 

[fireballkiller]

Oh my fault I hit the 4 instead of the 6...its okay..

 

[fireballkiller]

Well, screw mechanics, and screw code machines, I finally figured it out, and I feel like a total MORON!!!! When it wouldnt start I would dump cold water on the TPS, then the vehicle would start up..I then stopped at my cousins house, when I went to start it up, no go..I told my cousin "watch this" we filled up a gallon jug full of cold water, i then dumped it all over not only my NEW TPS but allover the throttle body as well...After 5 min. of trying to start, I did this and BAM it started right up! So then I get back to the house me and my dad are looking it over, and i told him "i wonder if im dumping water inadvertently on something else?" so we look, guess whats directly underneath the TB and surprise surprise surprise sarge, its the ECT sensor...go to napa get a new one, BAM no CEL perfect starts every time hot or cold..I guess when they go bad they tell the PCM the engine is still cold therefore dumping to much gas in it when its hot..so IAC = 124.00 new TPS = 54.00 and ECT = 30.00...

 

[Delta_1980]

good job figuring that out!

 

[mawrazen]

O2 sensors???

 

[fireballkiller]

nope, never replaced the 02 sensors....thanks Delta, it was quite a relief..