Software for fault-finding re; Explorer '97 - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

sandy58 · 03-06-2010, 02:21

Hi, all. Can anyone give me the name of the software (and tips for using it on my car) for fault-finding/re-setting on my 1997 Explorer (petrol). At present I would like to increase the idling revs as the engine tends to cut out on idle in drive. Thanks in advance.
Sandy in Scotland.

**360ci** · 03-13-2010, 11:56

You'd have to take it to a Ford shop, which I can imagine will be few and far between hat are familiar with the Explorer vehicles. An ODB scanner can show fault codes and such, and reset the engine light, they run a couple hundred dollars or I'd say about 100-125pounds unless you have to buy one and import it, then it'll be a bit more of course.

As for adjusting the idle, I'm not sure if you'd be able to do that without getting a custom tune to recalibrate the PCM (computer module). That, can be costly.

sandy58 · 03-13-2010, 13:05

Thank you very much for your helpful reply, 360ci. About the slow idling, I'll take your advice & see a "specialist" (if I can FIND one around here-Aberdeen, Scotland. :-)
All the very best to you & the rest of the members of the forum.
sandy58. :-)

**360ci** · 03-13-2010, 13:37

Anytime Sandy. You know come to think of it, you can spend the $50-75 here depending on the supplier and replace the IAC; idle air controller. They do have a service life that varies from 50K to 100+K miles. It's located on or around the throttle body and can easily be replaced in about 15min. You MIGHT have to remove the air intake at the top but on some applications you can do without having to remove any other parts to gain access to the IAC. If it gets gummed up with carbon over time it can cause the idle to vary at the worst of times.

If the engine revs are unsteady when driving, that's another sensor fix that's also location on the throttle body called the TPS, or throttle position sensor. It might help the idle problem as well, but start with the IAC first. Ruling out these sensors which will more or less have to be replaced sooner or later anyway, might save you the bucks on having to get the PCM recalibrated.

sandy58 · 03-13-2010, 14:27

Once again 360ci, Thanks for your very helpful tips. I'll investigate along these guideline which you have given me.
ATB
sandy58 :-)