running rough in the morning-SOHC

[BajaXplorer]

On my 'new " 97 XLT SOHC, when starting it up in the morning, it runs a little sputtery at first until about 2 blocks from home. This aint right and is bugging the crap outta me. Im hoping its a tuneup thing?

I was going to try to clean the MAF, change plugs and possibly run a can of COMBUSTION CLEANER thru it.

I get no CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, so hopefully its not a sensor or anything.

Any other ideas?

It goes in Monday for the CAM TENSIONER recall but I really dont want to pay for a tuneup. I can do that myself.

Thanks,
Doug

 

[Robert]

If they follow the instructions of the bulletin (00M12) that you are taking it in for, Ford should also replace the lower intake manifold o-rings. When they start leaking it will cause a rough idle when the engine is cooler in the morning. If let go long enough, it will eventually cause the Check Engine light to go on. Be sure and ask about whether or not they are going to replace the o-rings per the bulletin, but I wouldn't mention the rough idleing unless their repair doesn't fix it. This will at least let them know you are aware that they are supposed to replace them and will also prevent them from possibly charging you for a service you may not need such as MAF cleaning or fuel injector flush. Better to go in armed with knowledge and be sure they know that you have some knowledge. Just don't be a jerk about it to them though. That really pi$$es them off