Little help!!

[djalphabetix]

Okay, so here's my problem...A few months back I started noticing that when I started my 98' XLT 4.0 SOHC, it started sputtering like it wants to stall (it has a couple times) until I give it gas for about 30 seconds. I ignored it for a while, but now it's really getting on my nerves. About two weeks ago, my check engine light came on, so I went to Autozone to have it checked. They said it's either my intake temp sensor, my MAF, or possibly misfire. I bought a intake temp sensor, reset the computer, and the light came back on 3 days later. I changed out the MAF, and the light came back on 2 days later. I checked the plugs and it doesn't look like misfire, and there's no lag or change in performance. I'm clueless as to what it could be. Any suggestions???

 

[JDraper]

I'd say look at the IAC (Idle air control valve). It controls how much air gets to the motor at idle. If the vehicle drives completely normally except at idle, there's a good chance it's your culprit. It wouldn't be the first Ford IAC that went bad....

 

[bulldog3531]

If you post your actual codes then somebody here might be able to help you better.

 

[djalphabetix]

I don't know what the actual code is, but my friend said it's reading lean on both banks. He said he thinks it might be a vacuum leak.

 

[bulldog3531]

Good possibility it is a vacuum leak. You can spray carb cleaner around the intake arae and vacuum lines and if the idle drops that is where you leak is at.

 

[2001ExpSport]

I also had the check engine light. My code was cyl #3 misfire. I also had the sputter and die on cold starts. Sounds like you have the same problems I had and is a trouble spot for the SOHC. It's none of the items you've replaced unfortunately. I jast had mine fixed at a local Ford dealer.

My service order is as follows:

Customer states rough idle/cold surges and almost stalls, noise at idle too
Check for updates
Ran diagnostics with WDS, recieved DTC 171, 174, lean bank 1 and 2. Found intake o-rings leaking.
Replaced intake o-rings and cam tensioner
Reprogrammed PCM

The bill was $300 for this work and it runs like new, no kidding and I have over 100k on the ticker.

They also told me there are a handfull of updates for the PCM with the SOHC so if you have not been in for service for a few yrs that will help too. You can see on the last line they updated the PCM.

As for the rear cassettes, they quote like $2000 since they have to pull the motor.

Hope this helps,
Matt