ford exploder

[norwall]

hey guys, When i start up the engine theres a chugging n the ck engine light goes on n off down the road. Also i hear a kind of "clunk" in what seems to be the middle of the truck at times ? not sure what that may be but could the chugging be a bad fuel filter ,plugs or ....?

[Scott K]

If the check engine light is flashing, then there is more then likely a dead miss. I would start with checking, or replacing plugs and wires first. What year is the Explorer? What engine is in it?

[Jeremy airjer W]

I'd have to agree with the misfire. Usually the main cause of a flashing check engine light.

[norwall]

'93 xlt 6cyl

[norwall]

well got outta the lot after work and the rig barely would stay started. HAd the thing floored and was only going 35mph,was on my way to get new plugs when I stalled out n couldnt get it restarted. Dont think its the fuel pump as they usually give no warning upon going out. I would think it would still start unless plugs are all fouled out. Fuel filter ?

[Jeremy airjer W]

I think it might be a little more than plugs. Some things I would be checking is back pressure in the exhaust (plugged cat), MAF sensor, General scan tool data. Finding out why the check engine light was on/flashing wouldn't be a bad start either. I wouldn't hesitate to check fuel pressure as well. Usually they sound like they are turning over faster when there is no fuel pressure, if I heard that the gauge would be on.

[Scott K]

What AirJer said!

[norwall]

heard theres a way to clean the MAF instead of replacing ?

[Jeremy airjer W]

Hit it with some 3M brake cleaner or MAF sensor cleaner. Those are the two products I know personally won't hurt it. You'll know if its dirty or not when you pull it out. It will be very obvious if it is not clean.

[norwall]

thanx guys,still not having any luck but will keep trying i guess

[norwall]

tried gettin this thing going but nogo, as its trying to turn over i can hear what seems like a dull "pop" so to speak and a slight smell of gas ?

[norwall]

well i think the prob may be EGR valve or DFPE sensor as its backfiring when trying to start?. valve is about 60$ and sensor runs bout a 100 i guess,Ive heard its a easy job and ive heard its a pain. Any advice on how to tackle this ? Thank you on a sidenote some guy mentioned timing belt ?

[Jeremy airjer W]

no timing belt on a V-6!

For a hundred bucks you can have it diagnosed. Your $160 process of elimination seems like a long shot, especially since we still don't know if you checked fuel pressure or for spark?

[norwall]

times are tough dont have a 100 bucks and would have to have it towed as it dont start but thanks. Ill ck for that fuel preassure spark, how do ya do that again ?

[Jeremy airjer W]

Use a fuel pressure gauge and a spark tester.

Check around the local parts stores in your area. They may have pressure gauges that you can rent for less than buying.

[dabaer]

sorry to change the subject, but i got a quick question for ya.

airjer, you told him to use a spark tester. Not sure what that is or if ive seen one, just wondering what exactly the spark tester is?

thanks

[Scott K]

It is a external spark plug type thing you can plug into the plug wire to see if it is producing spark.

[dabaer]

kinda like a noid light!?