Rough start no acceleration?

2000 FORD EXPLORER
141,000 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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PEACETOU
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The vehicle listed above is the Limited model, has been driven very infrequently. After changing the air filter in December, checking all fluids, adding antifreeze to the radiator in preparation for subzero temperature (-10F actual; -50° F windchill) the car wasn't started again until early January. Dead. Battery jumped...started but puffing, blowing, backfiring, like it would explode...no idle and battery quickly discharged. NOW: Have cleaned battery posts; added distilled water to one cell; re-jumped 12.56V rest and 14.56V with Alternator; cleaned Mass air flow sensor (incomplete?). Will idle for extended period and starting without all that racket, but absolutely no power on acceleration. All fluids are normal. "Check engine" light that has been on now is off since cleaning the MAFs.
Mar 10, 2023 at 12:43 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

When it is running, is there any smoke from the exhaust or odd odors noticed? Also, do you hear any noise from the exhaust such as hissing or rattling?

I ask about the exhaust because when I think power loss, one of the first things that comes to mind is a plugged or partially plugged catalytic converter.

Do me a favor. Take a look through this link and let me know if it seems to mirror what you experience:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bad-catalytic-converter-symptoms

Let me know.

Joe
Mar 10, 2023 at 2:08 PM
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PEACETOU
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Update: Disconnected the MAFS, bingo. Has acceleration again. Will purchase new MAFS and hope that's the complete fix. Thanks for your input!
Mar 15, 2023 at 10:10 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

That is a good starting place and may totally resolve the issue. When you disconnect the MAF, it forces the PCM into a pre-set setting which will allow the engine to run basically normally.

If possible, let me know if that takes care of the issue or if there is anything I can do to help.

Joe
Mar 15, 2023 at 11:54 AM
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