Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting 02 Mountaineer HELP

02 Mercury Mountaineer V8 AWD

Our problem is this, the vehicle will turn over but not run. We drove the vehicle and parked it in the garage, the next morning we went to start it, and it would not start. So far I have bought a new air filter and fuel filter, but not yet have installed it. My last gas fill up was from Exxon (not a private dealer)

I've tried researching ford explorer forums, havent had any luck, i joined and posted, but im waiting!

Are you getting spark?

Yes the vehicle turns over and wants to start. But it doesnt stay running, it just cranks. If I put my foot on the accelerator and continue to crank it, it will stay on and rev, but as soon as i let go of the acclerator it shuts off.

only 36k miles

Your IAC (Idle Air Control) is bad. Most likely the plunger device is clogged up. I have no idea where it is on a 302 V-8, but on my V-6 Explorer, it's right by the throttle body (It will be close to it) and is cylindrical shaped. Two bolts and an electrical connector is all that holds it on. Spray some cleaner into it. If this doesn't help, the part is around $70.

It's incredibly easy to fix. The way I knew mine was bad was that just like you, so long as I would keep my foot on the air pedal, the motor would run, but as soon as I took it off, the motor died. The IAC makes it so you should never have to put your foot on the pedal while starting the car like you would on an old carbeurated machine. If you do have to do this, your IAC is bad.

Hey thanks man, I am going to try this when I go home!!! That does make sense now that i think of it!