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paperthrower · Feb 16, 2009, 01:46 AM

I have a1996 Ford Explorer that has a hard time starting. Have replaced the computer, water pump, crank sensor and mas air flow unit. Water temp gauge flutates and steams sometimes out of the tail pipe. Thought it might e a head gasket leak but if motor starts vechile runs strong. Have put in head gasket/block sealant. Once truck is started and has started and warmed up will continue to start until motor cools off.HELP

TxGreaseMonkey · Feb 16, 2009, 02:12 AM

Replace the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor, which affects fuel injector pulse width. The ECT Sensor is a temperature dependent resistor (thermistor), whose resistance decreases as the engine coolant temperature increases. It provides a richer mixture when cold, leaner mixture when hot. They become corroded, due to not changing the coolant frequently enough, flood the engine, and waste a tremendous amount of fuel.

TxGreaseMonkey · Feb 16, 2009, 08:26 AM

. Check for codes.

. Are you using the exact Motorcraft spark plugs that came with the vehicle? The only acceptable cross-reference plugs for Fords are Autolite, if you must. Never use Bosch--way too many problems. Ensure platinum plugs have less than 50,000 miles on them. My bet is that your plugs need replacing.

If the problem persists, consider replacing the coil pack.

paperthrower · Feb 16, 2009, 10:56 AM

Originally Posted by txgreasemonkey

. Check for codes.

. Are you using the exact Motorcraft spark plugs that came with the vehicle? The only acceptable cross-reference plugs for Fords are Autolite, if you must. Never use Bosch--way too many problems. Ensure platinum plugs have less than 50,000 miles on them. My bet is that your plugs need replacing.

If the problem persists, consider replacing the coil pack.

D starter do this also?

TxGreaseMonkey · Feb 16, 2009, 11:06 AM

I don't understand your question.

paperthrower · Feb 16, 2009, 11:56 AM

Originally Posted by txgreasemonkey

I don't understand your question.

Would a bad starter cause some of these problems?

TxGreaseMonkey · Feb 16, 2009, 12:02 PM

You always want to begin troubleshooting by ensuring the battery is fully charged and that the battery's terminals and cable connections are clean.

A bad starter could cause hard starting problems, if it can't crank the engine fast enough.