Starting issues.
Asked by Raven Feb 21, 2018 at 10:35 PM about the 1997 Ford Explorer 4 Dr XLT 4WD SUV
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
Truck will crank and run for a few seconds then
die. Has new alternator and battery. Check engine
light is on. Had to have it jump started often in the
past, when it wouldn't start up. Would have to turn
over 5 to 10 Times before it would start. Ran hot
last time i drove it and has been sitting up since.
What could be causing this?
5 Answers
First get the trouble code scanned, as you have a check engine light on. As you have a new battery and alternator, then hopefully that took care of constantly needing to be jump started. As to why it needs to crank and crank before catching - may need to check fuel pressure. (It could be any number of issues). Then as to running hot - have to go through cooling system, diagnose and make repairs as needed. Truck seems to need some TLC.
Is there a way I can get the codes scanned due to not being able to drive the truck at all?
Borrow or buy an OBD scanner, Amazon or Wallmart has em cheap, a 97 should be OBDII. In all honesty though, getting the code scanned might not be a priority, focus on the fuel delivery system so you can get the truck running, even if roughly. Check timing, spark, and fuel pump/fuel pressure, and check engine doesn't have unmetered air entering it (ie vacuum leaks), other simple things like PCV hose isn't cracked, EGR valve stuck open.
Update: today I got it crunk after having battery charged. Had to move it from lawn (city law) to carport. Let it run about 5 minutes. Going to get code scanner and go from there, try to fix it little by little. Thanks again.
