Shuts off while driving

ILUVCATS7

MEMBER
1999 FORD EXPLORER

V8 Wheel Drive Type unknown, Automatic 160,000 miles.

I bought this car with intending my dad to fix the things he could, before we bought it the owner of it thought the o2 sensor was bad and had it replaced. We went to pick it up and it would not start so the battery was completely drained and finally the car got started. On the way to my parents house it shut off three times. My dad cannot figure I out and I cannot afford to pay to even have it look at. The problem is, I really need it ASAP and I am strapped for cash as it is. Could you help me? I cannot make a donation to you but I appreciate your help and if you have a kind heart to help me fast. Please believe me. Thank you so much for not making me pay anything. Thank you and God bless.
Please help,
Amanda Kelsey

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

Hi,

Since it was running and then stalled but restarted, chances are it is related to the crankshaft position sensor. However, what I recommend first is this. The vehicle has an OBD 2 computer system. We really should scan the computer to see if there are diagnostic trouble codes that are related to this type of issue.

Here is a quick video showing how it is done:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

I realize most people don't own a scan tool. However, often times a parts store will do it free of charge or lend/rent you a scanner and they refund you when it's returned.

Now, the idea that it was stalling when you drove it could be related to low fuel pressure or even a crankshaft position sensor. If there are no codes when scanned, then my first suspect is the sensor. Take a look through this link and let me know if it seems to mirror what you experience.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

If you feel that is what you experience, you can confirm it by checking for ignition spark when it won't start. Here is a link showing how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

If there is no spark, chances are good it's the sensor. Here is a link showing how it's replaced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/crankshaft-angle-sensor-replacement

Here are the directions specific to your vehicle for replacement. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

_________________________________________

1999 Ford Truck Explorer 4WD V6-4.0L VIN E
Procedures
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Crankshaft Position Sensor Service and Repair Procedures
PROCEDURES
REMOVAL
1. Disconnect the battery ground cable.

pic 1

2. Remove the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor.
1 Disconnect the CKP sensor electrical connector.
2 Remove the screws.
3 Remove the CKP sensor.

INSTALLATION

NOTE:
CKP sensor needs to be touching the damper. CKP sensor has wear tabs that wear off after several engine revolutions.
Be sure sensor wiring is routed away from the battery cable.

pic 2

1. Install the CKP sensor.
1 Position the CKP sensor.
2 Install the screws.
3 Connect the CKP sensor electrical connector.
2. Connect the battery ground cable.

_________________________

If you look at the last pic, it shows the location of the sensor.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions or need help.

Take care,
Joe

Images (Click to make bigger)