Stalling engine trouble

[james86]

My 2001 Explorer XLT V6 4x4 has developed an intermittent problem that has now worsened.

Initially it would occassionally idel very low when I placed it in gear. Typically this would be placing it in reverse after being parked all day at work. Sometimes it would stall and I would be able to restart it, let it rest run a few minutes, and then shift into gear and drive just fine from there.

This past Friday this scenario played out, but it did not restart. I have read thoughts about possibly a solenoid but I really am not sure and I don't have a lot of understanding with vehicles. Just never been mechanically inclined with them.

The vehicle is currently stuck at work. I had to leave it over the weekend. I'm at work now but havent tried it for some superstitious fear that it will start and then not start again later tonight when time to leave.

Please advise.. what might this be and more importantly.. how do I go about diagnosing it.

Thank you in advance for any help offered.

 

[james86]

an update:

I decided to go down to the garage and try and start it. It started just fine. I let it idle till it warmed up, put it in gear. it didnt die.

However, the whole time it ran there was a lot of exaust smoke and it had a horrible smell to it. Not sure if that adds anything to the thoughts here but.. just thought I'd add that.