will.i

i have a 02 explorer and just recently it is stalling on me when i go to start it in the morning. there is a keer sound that happens on most starts lately. i was just wondering if anyone could help me figure out what is going on. i changed the plugs and air filter. there are no codes coming up and only does the sound on the first start meaning if i start to go and get gas it makes the sound but after i get gas and start back up no sound. if that makes sence. the stall is if it sits for a period of seven or more hours. thanks for any help on the problem

R.S.LOGAN

If the noise is coming from the starter it could be dirt on the pinion shaft which is causing the pinion to stick a bit as it throws forward to engage with the flywheel prior to turning the engine . If that is the noise , removing the starter and cleaning the shaft so the pinion can slide freely should cure it . You could also check the teeth on the pinion and ring gear at same time .If not that , could be a belt slip noise .Hard to judge without hearing it .The cold stalling could be caused by the ECT ( engine coolant temp ) sensor which lets the ECU set up know how much fuel the engine needs , i.e more fuel when cold and then leans out as engine warms up .Just like the old chokes on earlier cars .