What do you guys think?

[frat guy]

Well it's time for my X to get its first major repairs. My mechanic that I trust to a certain extent told me that I needed new fuel injectors, plugs, wires, an O2 sensor and a fuel filter. This was gonna be $1200. Then a week after it was in the shop they told me my valves were bad and it was gonna be another $1200. I'm a student I dont have this money. So they just gave the X back to me. Do you guys think it was strange that they could not tell it was the valves from the very start? And do you all think it would be cheaper to just replace the motor? I have 137,000 miles on it. I don't know what to do, nor how to do any of that. Any input would be cool. Thanks

 

[aldive]

I smell a rat....

I can't imagine a '97 needing new injectors.

Did they run a compression test? The results?

I would definitely look elsewhere.

Good luck .....

 

[frat guy]

they said it had low compression like 20 pounds or something and i have cylinders misfiring

 

[00XLS]

Have they done anything yet? Do a compression test yourself, if you can change the plugs and wires you can definately do this. As for the low compression, sometimes with the mileage that high the valves get carbon buildup on them which won't allow them to close properly which could give the low reading. Let us know whats been done and fine another garage.

 

[frat guy]

nothing has been done. they did tell me that there is a chance the valves have carbon build up. if it was just build up would i have to replace them? i am gonna try and find another garage or someone on the boards to help me again. so if you guys know a garage or person in Boulder/Denver please let me know.

 

[mctoy]

Try sea-foam 'ing it, ($5) If the truck seems to run a little better, then change out the wires, plugs etc yourself. Probably $200 bucks or so. (I think) May just be a carboned up motor. Definitely be worth a $5 investment....

 

[bipolarbob]

1200 for injectors? Does it hurt when you sit?

 

[monkeydude3]

ok I have a 1994 with 136000 miles.... I just did my injectors, it was a three time ordeal, a word to the wise, if you do them, get brand spanking new ones.... I tried rebuilt and got kicked in the nuts royally... I see no reason for one like yours though to need injectors, let alone the valves! I say do a compression test yourself. yeah try the sea foam and do the plugs and wires and air filter, and see where that gets you. I don't think you need a $2400 tune up. Also try running a load of cleaner through the gas to try and clean the injectors. C-ya

George

 

[00XLS]

I agree with the rest of the guys, try the seafoam first (do a search and ask if your not sure), then run two bottles of a good fuel injector cleaner thru, after all of that slap on some new plugs and wires. but while your doing the plugs and wires, also do a compression test. This may sound hard but I taught myself how to do it all and its really not, just do a bit of research on here, take your time and not only will you save yourself some $$$ but you'll feel good about doing it.

 

[Albino 94LTD]

While you are doing all that, dsconnect your battery for about 10 minutes also.

 

[monkeydude3]

well... also which engine do you have? the 4.0L OHV or the OHC? that might provide some help. Generally what I've read regarding the explorers is the compression should be 120-150 psi, and the lowest one sh ouldn't be too far below 75% of the highest cylinder. I wouldn't trust that mechanic, a $2400 tuneup... yeah right, unless of course this engine was literally beat on every day of it's life such as WOT all the time... oye

 

[Eneurb]

If it's an SOHC engine, a problem with the primary timing chain or tensioner will cause the compression to be low in all cylinders. As for replacing all of your fuel injectors, I hope they atleast bought you breakfast the next morning.

 

[Kingkobra]

Injectors on a Ford at that milage is very unusual. Ford injectors seems to be a very dependable and long lasting part. Low compression is cause by 1 of 3 things (usually).... rings not sealing , valves not sealing , or no air circulation (intake valve not opening,,,no air comming in...no air to compress)... Carbon is a big factor, but carbon doesn't form or attach itself to a valve face. A dry/wet compression test or a cylinder leak test will tell you the source of the no compression problem.

Email me if I can be of any further help.... mike@36dds.com