Topic: Problems with a ford explorer

[jamesb]

I've done some research and couldn't find anything about the problem. My explorer every so often goes through 2 spark plugs it breaks the electrode inside and runs like crap and they usually do about the same time almost every 4-6 months. It just does it on 4 and 5 I can not for the life of me figure it out has anyone had this happen on a vehicle. I've tries different plugs that was for the engine the last set are Ngk. When it happens it runs like crap (obviously). I can usually tell when it's getting ready to go completely the gas mileage gets bad. Then a couple of days after the change then it starts missing. This has been going on for about 2 1/2 years now.

[madScientist]

Year and engine please.

[Really?]

I have read the V8's have spark plug issues like shooting them out of the head.  But no, not heard of that on any vehicle.

My '02 Explorer has been good to me and I have been impressed with how reliable it has been.  I need to sell it though.  I do not drive it anymore since I got a Z71.  It just sits now collecting dust and costing me each month in insurance.

[jamesb]

It's a 1997 with the v6 4.0 overhead valve engine. This vehicle has been very good to us. It has 182572 on the meter we have owned it for 8 years now. And has been very dependable. The main thing about it is that it's paid for nothing owed on it.

[madScientist]

GREAT engine!

I would run a compression test comparing to a working cylinder. I cant remember off the top of my head what it should be.

Also, have you run an injector cleaner or done an induction service? I think the odds are slim but there could be carbon buildup in those cylinders that is interfering with the plug? You would see that on the compression test as it would be elevated by ~10psi vs the other cylinders. If that is the case an induction service should take care of it....or some seafoam run through the top end but due to liability reasons (cause if you do it wrong you can hydrolock your engine) I cant tell you how to do that.

[trueblue]

Easy fix... Jack up the number plates and put a new car in-between them.

[jamesb]

I just bought my wife a new car and I'm getting ready to buy a new Cadillac. I really like this ford it does great in the snow. and I don't want to drive my other cars in crappy weather. I will do the compression test and I did run some seafoam through it but really no change

[dave500]

[jamesb]

That's one I haven't heard or seen before. Thanks I like that one.

[madScientist]

Oh c'mon guys :-D

I bleed ford blue. Ever since my first Powerstroke diesel...it made it to 837k miles before needing any engine work outside of a starter, batteries and regular care and maintenance. It's Duramax couterpart...not so much. It made it to about 40k before the injectors went out. another 20k miles and the rear main seal went, another 10k miles and the fuel pump

I've never had anything but good Fords and bad Chevy's

[Really?]

The Raptor was just a tad out of my price range.