4L 6cyl auto transmission 1992 Explorer has always started on first try with no need for accelerator pedal, and ran smooth at about 1000RPM while warming up, around 650 RPM in Park/Neutral/or in gear with brakes on.
Suddenly, it needs gas pedal to stay running without bucking - RPM drops to less than 500, charge guage dips at same time to less than 12 V. Must put it in neutral and give gas at stoplights. Runs fine while moving. This happened immediately after I sprayed Teflon Silicon lubricant in ignition switch, and (more importantly?) left the ignition switch in "On" position without engine running for about 25 minutes. Also new tank of gas 20 miles earlier.
Does something electrical burn up or overheat when you leave it switched on? I have tested it for 5 miles at city speeds but I don't want to get stuck on the Interstate trying to "burn it off" as one friend suggested. Battery seems strong, charge guage returns to 14+ volts when it is running at or above 1000 RPM. THX!
2007-03-06
01:24:17
·
6 answers
·
asked by
Tim R ☂
4
in
Cars & Transportation
➔ Maintenance & Repairs
UPDATE --- thanks for your quick replies and good ideas. I now know how to spell "gauge" and how to spell-check :)
Odometer has 85000 miles on it; no service record to determine clogged injectors or other factors. I tried gas-dry and ran it at 65mph for about 20 miles, same. Elec system checked OK by parts place; no corrosion, charging normally. Plug wires are in place.
I should get a real tune-up when I have the money, to cover the plugs and wires theory.
Any advice on pinpointing possible vacuum leak? I moved around hoses listening for a change in sound, but no luck. Thanks you all for reading and those who replied! -- tim
2007-03-06
10:59:41 ·
update #1