Every so often my 1996 E 150 will sound like it want to die. Often in traffic and when it is warm usually. Putting it in Neutral at a light will help. It will then just snap out of it. The problem was very bad going over a pass in the Rockies but I made it. It does not happen often and if it gets to bad a short rest will cure the problem.

I have no idea what to look for. Any ideas?

 

You won't get much help (if any) with this question as you typed it in the wrong forum.

You want the: 1968 - Present Full Sized Vans forum / This forum only pertains to 1961/67 Econolines.

When asking a question like this, list all the pertinent info. It's a 1996 E150 but what size is the engine?

 

First off, I would like to say it would be imperative that you start with basic maintenance.

Sounds like it could be a list a problems but most of all i think your vehicle is either having 1 of the three issues i am about to list.

My idea of whats going on it could be coolant issues... Coolant issues can cause your engine to buck a little bit in some cases some engines it is more noticable then others.

If you have just brought this vehicle and your vehicle is doing this it could be more extensive then that...

Could be timing, combustion issues or what other mahem that can be happening.


My suggesion is to start with basic maintenance Start with checking your coolant

Feel your hoses, check if they are squishy when the engine is well heated up.

If the hoses are squishy you may have a worn out water pump. (Heat your vehicle to the proper temperature before diagnosing). Usually when a water pump is done for it leaks. To test for coolant leak caused by water pumps slide a piece of construction paper under your vehicle over night... Check the piece of paper if you have green on it then you have a coolant leak.

Next, Check to see if your hose is swelling, If it is swelling you may have a faulty thermostat...

a Faulty thermostat can make your hoses swell because it cannot circulate thru the engine.


Last, Check the color of the coolant it should be green not unless you are the type of person to run it pure.

Your coolant should not be milky, have a brown color to it, or have brown chunks in it. If it has something that looks like brown gu in it that would mean your transmission fluid is leaking into your ratiator. There is a device that goes from the radiator to the transmission that helps cool your transmission fluid. If this "device" goes bad your transmission fluid mixes in the radiator thus causing brown gu substance.


Anyway this is what i can tell you to check but it sounds like your engine must be over heating..

Run further testing to conclude what is wrong.

 

Check and see if your fuel senders or the jets in your carb might be messed up.