This problem began about a week ago. We have a 97 Explorer XLT SOHC with about 136K miles. First time, the engine started OK, ran for about 3 miles and then stalled. Would not start again (cranks like crazy, new battery 6 months ago). Started fine the next morning and most of the week. Stalled one other time, but restarted OK. Seems to be fine once it is warm and running.

Yesterday, it started fine, and ran about 4 miles OK. Then I stopped and it had trouble starting. I tried depressing accelerator while cranking (I'm used to carburator engines flooding) and it eventually started. Ran for 20 miles, no problem. In afternoon it started fine, ran about 1 mile and stalled at a stop light. Got it to start and run for about 5 seconds. But would not keep running. Would not start after many repeated attempts. Towed to shop. Started fine, then stalled after about 200 feet. Started fine, and wouldn't stall. They are scratching their heads.

No check engine light.
Cranks fine.
Gets GREAT mileage (21+ mostly highway).
Usually has no trouble starting cold.
Stalls only in 1st few miles.

Any thoughts?

Brandan