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I have a 2001 Explorer and it just started ...

Sent to Car Experts April 1 2006 at 6:49 AM
   

I have a 2001 Explorer and it just started "chugging" when I accelerate at higher speeds. I don't notice anything below 25-30 mph and it seems to idol okay, but then around 35mph and up it feels like it's not getting sufficient fuel?? I'd like to try ANYTHING else before taking it to a shop, as I know that right out the gate I'll end up paying $200 just for a diagnosis! Any suggestions?

 

Optional Information:
2001 Ford Explorer 8 Cyl

Already Tried:
nothing/p>

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $15
Answer
April 1 2006 at 6:54 AM (5 minutes and 5 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
The first two things I would check are fuel pressure(with a gauge). and exhaust back pressure.If the fuel filter has never been changed I would give that a shot.Also check for evidence of any oil in the air intake boot.If any is found clean the inside of the mass air flow sensor with carb cleaner spray or intake cleaner.An exhaust shop will do a back pressure test for a small fee so call around about that first.The fuel pressure should be checked during the problem by taping the gauge to the windshield.

Master ASE Certified.L1 Advanced Engine Performance Certified.Pa Emission Repair Technician.Just Answer Car Category Mentor.
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Davo -- Master technician -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1964 Car Accepts
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April 1 2006 at 7:02 AM (7 minutes and 41 seconds later)
         
Reply to Davo/diablo666's Post: Could "bad gas" cause that sort of problem? I have NO mechanical skills and know NOTHING about cars (female :). Or perhaps having the fuel injections cleaned?? These are two things that a friend mentioned.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
April 1 2006 at 7:09 AM (7 minutes and 24 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
I would suspect if you had bad gas there would be more problems even at lower speeds.I really doubt that cleaning the injectors will do any thing but help you spend money.If you want to try add some fuel injection cleaner to the gas tank and fill it up with premium.If the injectors are dirty that should clean them.I really think it will fall into one of the three things I listed though but adding the injector cleaner and prmium gas would be a cheap first try at fixing it.If the convertor is clogging the exhaust(back pressure test)it is covered for 8 years or 80k miles.I don't know if you fall into that mileage but figured if you did that could save you some money.

Master ASE Certified.L1 Advanced Engine Performance Certified.Pa Emission Repair Technician.Just Answer Car Category Mentor.
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Davo -- Master technician -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1964 Car Accepts
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April 1 2006 at 7:14 AM (5 minutes and 4 seconds later)
         
Reply to Davo/diablo666's Post: Thanks! I'll call around for an exhaust shop. Appreciate the info.
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