Hard Starting/Rugh Idel not IAC..... any help???

[bodyboarder]

I think I have the same problem also on my 2000 XLT SOHC. I have replaced the IAC and the MAF but the problem persists. I am going to replace the upper and lower intake manifold gaskets to se if this fixes the problem. Did Ford redesign the gaskets for the 2000 SOHC explorer also?

 

[ThePhoenix]

thanks for the info

 

[99xlsdude]

Dealer cost/time to replace intake maniford gasket?

I don’t remember the exact cost of the gaskets but it was just beer money, and not even good beer. The lower intake manifold gasket is also available as part of a kit that includes the revised timing chain tensioner. See TSB 00M12 if you have not dealt with that problem yet. You could kill two birds with one stone.

Does anyone know approximately what the dealer charges to perform this repair (labor hours)?

For about a year, off and on I've had 171 and 174. I've tried cleaning MAF, IAC, TB; installed new plugs and wires, air filter, PCV; no apparent vacuum hose leaks (99 V6 OHV 108K miles). Idle is smooth (750 rpm after warmup, 1500-1800 cold), no performance issues - warm or cold. Passed NJ emissions inspection. If I unplug the battery cable, the codes go away (sometimes for weeks at a time, other times for a day or so). However, they return when truck is driven in wet/cooler weather. Codes are set (CE lite turns on) about 5 minutes into trip (around time engine warms up). Does this sound like manifold gasket or MAF malfunction? Maybe something else?

Thanks for the help.


Talked to dealer this morning. Was told that because the CE lights up in cool/damp weather it is probably MAF malfunction due to condensation on a defective or dirty sensor wire. I have already tried to clean the MAF twice. Any opinions before I spend $120 (AutoZone) to buy new MAF (Cardone)? Or, is it better to spend more $$$ for Motorcraft part at dealer or Rockauto?

Also, dealer said that problems with the intake manifold gaskets are not common on 99 V6 OHV.

Thanks.