QuestionHi, I have just bought a 1993 Ford Explorer with a manual gearbox. The problem is that I am in Europe and these cars are very rare so I am counting on your help.
First of all, after a few miles the engine check light will come on. I turn off the engine, it will run for a while and then the light comes on again. However the engine runs very smooth, no apparent problems.
Second, the water temperature is oscilating and the interior of the car won't heat up.
Third and the worse, it has some transmission problems. After a few miles in the city, using the clutch very often, when I stop at a traffic light it won't come out of gear. Also it won't go back in any gear except reverse. I have to put it in reverse and then in first in order to start. While driving it doesn't seem to have any problems. If I turn off the engine, the gearbox works without a glitch, but when I start it again it all begins again. Also you have to press the clutch pedal very hard, it is very stiff.
I hope you can help me.
Thank you in advance.
AnswerHello and thanks for the question...I'll try to help.
Your check engine light coming on is most likely caused by one of a few things, ---your engine coolant temp. not getting up to spec., an EGR system problem, or an O2 sensor problem. Yoiu really need to check the computer system for codes.
I would suggest that you replace your thermostat. This is usually the cause of most cooling system failures. The Ford thermostats usually stick open and won't porperly let the engine heat up. It might also cure the check engine light problem.
As far as your transmission problem.... Check the clutch master cylinder fluid level. IF it is low, fill it ---it uses DOT 3 brake fluid, NOT DOT 4..... I would also suggest to you that are heading in to a clutch replacement. Along with inspecting the clutch after removing the transmission, if it's Ok, replace the internal slave cylinder.....they sometimes get stuck/forzen.
I hope this helps,
Erik
