Sunday, March 2, 2014
How to Change the Oxygen Sensor in a 1999 Ford Explorer
When an oxygen sensor fails in your 1999 Ford Explorer, it is like pouring money into your gas tank. Your gas mileage will decrease substantially, and your Check Engine light may illuminate. If you have a bad oxygen sensor, you should replace it right away. One sensor is located on each side of the exhaust manifold. You can buy new sensors at an auto parts store.
Instructions
- 1
Lift the truck with a jack and secure it on jack stands. Move the jack out of the way once the truck is stable on the jack stands.
2Pull the wiring harness connection apart at the top of the oxygen sensor. The connector will simply pull apart.
3Remove the oxygen sensor with an oxygen sensor socket and ratchet. Discard the old sensor as you will no longer need it.
4Insert the new sensor, threading it by hand to start it. Torque it to 30 pound-feet with your torque wrench.
5Press the wiring harness connection into place on the new sensor. The connector should click when it engages fully.
6Repeat the steps on the remaining oxygen sensor if necessary. Raise the truck with the jack enough to remove the jack stands. Return the truck to the ground.
Friday, November 29, 2013
How to Replace an Egr Valve in a Ford Explorer
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve in your Ford Explorer is an exhaust regulating device attached to the intake manifold of the engine. It was first introduced to the United States in the 1960s and has continued to progress in improving fuel efficiency and reducing smog. It works by allowing small measured amounts of exhaust to enter the combustion chamber (pistons), thus reducing the temperature in the chamber. A malfunctioning EGR valve remains open and causes the temperature in the pistons to increase, allowing nitrogen oxide (smog forming emissions) to enter the atmosphere. Replacing the EGR valve in the Ford Explorer is a moderately easy repair to perform.
Instructions
- 1
Raise the hood and locate the EGR valve, which is attached to the right rear on the intake manifold near the firewall. The intake manifold is attached to the side of the engine block.
2Disconnect the single-prong terminal electrical connection that plugs into the EGR valve sensor. Detach the black rubber vacuum tube which plugs into the EGR valve. Inspect the tube and electrical connection for cracking and excessive wear. Replace these parts as necessary.
3Take out the two mounting bolts located on the top and bottom sides of the valve. Detach the old valve from the manifold and gently tap it using a hammer to break the seal. Scrape off the old gasket using a paint scraper, being careful not to allow any debris to enter the manifold.
4Apply a thin coat of gasket adhesive to the new gasket using your finger and place it onto the manifold. Make sure the bolt holes are properly aligned so that the new EGR valve will seat properly.
5Insert the new replacement EGR valve into the manifold opening being careful not to damage the EGR valve sensor attached on the top of the EGR valve. Secure the replacement EGR valve in place using the two bolts and reattach the single-prong terminal wire.
6Disconnect the battery and wait 4-6 hours to reset the check engine light indicator. Reconnect the battery and see if the check engine light comes on again.
