1998 Ford Explorer RPM gauge

1998 FORD EXPLORER
252,000 MILES • 4.0L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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GRUNION
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My RPM gauge goes up and down between 2,500 to 3,000 while on the freeway. Could it be...1) transmission slipping. 2) needs tune up. 3) Fuel filter. 4) or?
Oct 8, 2014 at 4:34 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Wow... It could be a few things. Does it feel as if the trans is slipping or do you just feel the vehicle speeding up and down? Has the check engine light come on?
Oct 8, 2014 at 5:19 PM
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GRUNION
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Engine light on for another unrelated problem. There is no jerking or feeling trani slipping. I do however hear the engine rev up a little but very slightly. Even when in PARK the engine goes up a down,
Oct 8, 2014 at 6:34 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
At an idle, when in park, chances are the idle air control valve is bad (IAC). The IAC is responsible for maintaining the engine idle speed. Also, you could have a vacuum leak on the engine causing these issues. Those would be the first things I check.
Oct 9, 2014 at 5:22 PM
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