Ok now I'm confused (spark plugs)

[Bowtiebuster]

Hey guys. So today after 4 hours in my Father-in-law's garage I got the plugs and wires changed. First thing I noticed was the old plugs that were in the truck (Motorcraft Platinum AGSF 22PM's) we're shorter then the TR55-1's that I bought to install in the motor. Just so were clear, my truck is an 02 EX Sport with the SOHC motor. I installed these NGK TR55-1 plugs in my 01 Ranger (SOHC) and the motor loved them... My Explorer isn't liking them so much, or at least I think they're causing my headache.

Problem: When I give it anything more then 1/3 throttle, it stutters and shakes (while driving) and has little power. Also the check engine light flashes after 3 or 4 seconds of "the shakes". This is very frustrating as I just figured some moronic mechanic installed the plugs he ordered which are usually wrong (for a 4.0 OHV, as we know these parts databases seem to have a world of trouble realizing they are 2 different motors). When I drive 1/4 throttle to maintain highway speeds, it runs smoothly. Idles nicely aswell.
I also changed the plug wires at the same time... It's like it doesn't have enough spark to burn the fuel past a certain point of throttle... ?

Anyone have some insight on this?

Thanks in advance

 

[Bowtiebuster]

I also gaped these plugs to .055, and the old plugs were gapped to what looks like .065

 

[Bowtiebuster]

Anyone have any thoughts? I am about to get my snowsuit on and go tinker with it in the driveway.

 

[rolleye]

No thoughts here , lol

I am going to do a plug/wire swap on my '02 Sport so I am watching...

 

[timlagios]

try unplugging the maf sensor, i had the same problem turned out to be the stupid maf sensor, when you unplug it it might idle kinda crappy, but get passed that and take it for a ride and see if it is better.

 

[JDraper]

Was it running right before the plug change?

 

[Bowtiebuster]

Was it running right before the plug change?

Yes aside from getting 10mpg, it ran good.

So after going outside and spending another 2 hrs in the snow trying to troubleshoot this major PITA, I discovered that 2 plugs were broken... I guess when I was installing them the u-joint combo I was using caused the plugs to crack. So I nipped off to Canadian Tire to get replacements. Unfortunately they only had TR55-1GP's, so I threw those 2 in as temporary replacements until I can order up the V-power TR55-1's. So After installing the plugs, I got in the truck and started it... Problem gone! Yay me! Finally... So I put the tire back on, lower it to the ground (all with the engine still running), I get in and give it more revs and, the friggin' miss / hesitation is back. WTH!? I just had to walk away and come inside, I am so frustrated with how this simple plugs & wires tune-up has turned out.

 

[jremington59]

Make sure you have the plug wires on tight. I know it sounds easy but it happens to people all the time. You might also doublecheck and make sure they are the right plug and the right gap.

 

[waskly]

pretty sure ex hate all plugs but motorcraft. and 2 other brands.

 

[Bowtiebuster]

Ok, maybe I will just replace the NGK's with something a little more common to the forum. What do you guys suggest? ( I know there is a SOHC plug guide on Rangerpowersports, but I would rather have the opinion of EX guys. Thnx

 

[waskly]

autolite or motorcraft.

there both cheap plugs and work great.

 

[Bowtiebuster]

Thanks guys for all your input... I went back out in the snow, took the tire off for the 3rd time today and looked closer at the plug wires. Looked at #3 plug wire and found the clip has broken off wire itself (inside the plug boot). Had to use one of the old wires but shes running like a top now. No codes, no stumbling, nice power. Cross your fingers for me. lol