QuestionI have a 1993 Ford Explorer, V6, 4.0L
A few weeks ago I noticed alot of fluctuation in my idle when I was at a light or just sitting still. I've always noticed a huge loss in gas economy and a loss in power.
A strong oder of fuel was present so I inspected the Cannister Purge Valve and replaced it. I also replaced the PCV valve. I checked all the vacuum hoses around the Cannister Purge Valve and all seem to be ok.
I did notice when I pulled the PCV valve out that it was soaked in oil. That's normal, right?
I replaced it, but the PCV valve I purchased at the store had this plastic peice at the bottom of it with 2 ports for hoses. The PCV valve rubber hose didnt have 2 hoses, just 1. So I removed the valve from the plastic peice and placed it in there just like the other one. Is that normal?
After I changed the Cannister Purge Valve and PCV valve, I'm still having a sluggish drive and lots of fluctuation in idle when I'm sitting still.
I reset the computer by taking off the negative battery terminal and let it sit off for about a half of an hour.
It's still running terribly.
What else could this be? I checked the Air Filter and air hoses and all seem to be just fine.
I also removed the IAC and cleaned it. Still runs terribly. When the idle starts fluctuating when I'm sitting still, it jumps up and down by itself and I notice black smoke coming out of the tailpipe.
Please advise as to what other measures I can take to fix this. thanks!
JEFF WHITEIS
jeff@lighthousecarecenter.org
AnswerHi Jeff,
I would clean the EGR valve....don't replace it, just clean it.
Have you run any injector cleaner through the gas tank? Do So.
Check the oil, and see if it seems real thin, like with gasoline in it. I'm thinking of either an injector stuck open, or the fuel pressure regulator leaking internally, and sucking raw gas into a cylinder, and the gas leaking past the rings into the oil.
Van
