SOHC runs rough on rainy mornings (at startup)

[sphaugh]

my '99 SOHC V6 seems to have some low idle problems in the morning after a hard rain (parked outside). It nearly stalls, but usually recovers gradually - as I let it coast out of the driveway in Neutral. By the end of the 30' it's usually done stuttering.

The air filter clean as a whistle. It feels like it's not getting enough fuel... perhaps this relates to Ford's recommending a new fuel filter every 15K?? I just bought my '99 Explorer from it's first owner, Mercedes Benz technician, who seemed very meticulous with his maintenance - but I'm not sure about the fuel filter. (The vehicle checked out with an outstanding bill of health before I bought it, at a large volume Ford dealer with the computer analyzer, 2 months ago). It's got 48K miles...

I wonder if this is a common trait to the SOHC V6, or if anybody has any other insight?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Stomper]

Won't Idle after / during rain!

Hey man. I have the same problem with my '97 Sport with SOHC.

In fact it is raining outside right now and when I wanted to leave for lunch today, it actually wouldn't keep an idle! Normally it does just like you say, and a few pumps of the accelerator or a short drive will cure it. But, not today. There is just no idle period.

The engine seems to run fine and operate with full power thru all the gears, but when stopped at a light or something I can't take my foot off the gas.....instead have to apply enough pressure to keep it idling.

I meticulously maintain my vehicle and have no clue. Have you heard from anyone yet, offline? Thanks!

 

[JDraper]

I was having the same problem with my '01, except it was stalling as soon as it started. Dry warm mornings were fine, cold & damp, forget it!! Turned out to be a sticking IAC valve that was replaced under warranty. I believe there is a TSB on it. It fixed my problem immediately.

 

[Harry5150]

I have had this symptom with 2 cars with distributors (yes I know 2nd gens have coil packs) with moisture causing a light misfire/rough idle until the engine heated up dried the moisture up.

Maybe there's a gap somewhere in the ignition system somewhere where the spark is shorting out. Check the plugs wires for looseness at the plugs and coil packs.

 

[Alec]

I second the suggestion to look over all the electrical connections, especially those in the ignition system. Also check for air leaks or holes in the air intake tract, and maybe your intake manifold bolts. Also cleaning your MAS couldn't hurt. And like JD said, it could be the moisture causes your IAC to stick.

So:
check stuff,
clean MAS,
clean and/or inspect IAC, might need replacing.

 

[Stomper]

Thanks dudes.....I did a search and found a thread on cleaning your MAS as well as cleaning your AIC. Good stuff! Gonna try it out this weekend. Oh and for you other guys, here is the link (go down half the page to 410Fortune:

Dead Link Removed

Depending on your like drink more or less beer with the procedure.....more AFTER is recommended!