Idle Problem. Start Problem.

[Mjee]

I have a 1995 Ford Explorer 4 x 4 V6 4.0. Automatic. My issue with the car is when outside tempt. is hot. It act like won't run. On cold days, it runs perfect. Smooth, Idle on drive 800 rpm. No problem. On hot days. Have problem like it died on a stop. It won't stay idle. It won't start. I have to tap on the idle module (on the right top of Intake Manifold. Than it will start. But idles terrible. Anybody have this problem?

 

[XLTrunner]

If by "idle module" you mean IAC (Idle Air Control) valve, try removing and cleaning the inside of it. I'd highly recommend replacing the gasket while you're at it. I don't know if this is your problem, but seems a logical place to start if tapping on it makes a difference in your vehicle at least starting. It's also important to know that these vehicles do not do well with aftermarket IAC's should you decide to replace it. Go with factory original. I believe Hitachi was the original supplier. Of course, the other thing you should do is check for trouble codes.

 

[EB4X]

Keep us posted Mjee, I have exact same vehicle (essentially) and some spare working parts, (including IAC) and right in north OC... plus OBD1 code reader for our old setups...

 

[J_C]

Agreed, clean out the IAC valve. You might also clean the MAF sensor while you're at it, if it hasn't been done in a while. If this doesn't help enough, I'd use a scan tool that can see the temp sensor value.

Other possibilities include an intake manifold leak when hot. I might use scan tool to look at long term fuel trims, could be adding a lot of fuel (but not enough, reached its limit) if too lean from extra air whether due to an intake manifold leak, or IAC, or under-measurement from dirty MAF sensor.