Knocking and idling rough

1995 FORD RANGER
200,000 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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SNOOPY11
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  • 2 POSTS
Hello! We have the truck listed above that began running very rough yesterday, and what sounds like knocking. We have looked for vacuum leaks, put in new spark plugs, spark plug wires, etc., but have not solved the problem. I am wondering if it could be the EGR system?
May 4, 2020 at 2:28 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good afternoon,

Can you upload a video of the knocking?

It could be related to this. I would not do anything yet until I hear the noise.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-noises

The 2.3 was common for issues with the upper end. If it is, then it will run rough.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-misfires-or-runs-rough

Roy
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May 4, 2020 at 3:28 AM
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SNOOPY11
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I might be able to get a video, but it only clatters when the car is accelerating or under load. I have experience with valves clattering, as we had a burnt valve, and it sounded the same. If you sit and hold the throttle open, it will not knock. However, when you let the RPM's go down to idle, it is very rough.
A couple of weeks ago, the bottom radiator hose failed, the car overheated, the valves started clattering, and we pulled over. We fixed the radiator issues, and the car ran fine... got on the interstate several times, running great. Then yesterday, it started clattering, and the car started idling badly.
Do you think the head gasket could have melted?
Do you want a video of the truck running at idle, or do you need to hear the clattering?

Thanks!

Regards,
Don
May 4, 2020 at 3:43 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
I need to hear the noise you hear.

I would also do a compression test.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Roy
May 4, 2020 at 3:53 AM
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