So my 2003 4.2 idles somewhat rough, but accelerates even rougher. Took in it for a diag at the local shop, and $150 later, I was told the problem could not be located and they would have to pull the head to go deeper. The only problem I'm having believing that is the shop told me that during the compression test, all valves came back good. So basically they want me to pay them 1,800 to pull the head and send it to a machine shop.

Here's a list of the OBD codes it's throwing:

P0316: Engine Misfire Detected on Startup (First 1000 Revolutions)
P0302: Cylinder #2 Misfire Detected
P1131 and P1132
P1152

It also threw a code for a manufacturer control fuel/air ratio, but I did not write down the exact number for some reason.

Here's what I've done to it:
New plugs and wires
New coil pack (did not fix issue, returned to Auto Zone)
New camshaft sensor (did not fix issue, returned to Auto Zone)

The shop said they found no problems with any sensors, EGR was fine, compression test came back fine, opened valve cover and found no broken springs or lifters.

The truck has a slight tapping/clicking noise during slight acceleration and sometimes when idle and I've been told by many people that it sounds like a stuck lifter.

Any ideas that don't involve spending 2k on something that doesn't need to be done?

 

So the shop mentioned when I picked it up that they swapped the injectors between cylinders. Worked on it for a while yesterday, cleared the codes and now it's saying nothing about cylinder 2. Instead, it's saying cylinder 1 misfire now. I think I'm gonna take a look at that injector.

 

Is your truck fixed? I have two web sites that were tremendously helpful with my 2003 E250 4.2L that had the same problem. Check my other posts, you'll see.

First I recommend that you unplug and cap the vacuum line for the EGR valve. Test drive and if it runs better; you NEED to follow up with my experience. two web sites; basically the same fix.
2000 Ford Windstar (Codes 171 and 174)
and
https://sites.google.com/site/fordf1...P0171P0174-Fix

I like the site with the "Windstar" a little more because it shows the EGR ports. When I took apart mine, my cylinder 5 EGR port was the ONLY ONE not plugged up. Hence the misfire on my #5.
Email me Borem111@gmail.com if you want more guidance.