My 97 Explorer 4.0 SOHC has started to bog down when I press the accelerator. It feels like their is interference with the exhaust. I has a new muffler and there are no holes in the exhaust system. When I stop at a light or in traffic, it will stall. I have to keep the RPMs at 1000 while holding the brake. There is no check engine light on. Does anyone have an idea where I should begin to look?

 

I'd start by inspecting carefully for a vacuum leak or EGR valve that is not closing at idle.

-Rod

 

Thanks I will try that. I will keep you informed.

 

Thanks for the advise. Because of the year and mileage I checked the price for a new EGR valve at the local autozone. After seeing the price I started the truck and proceeded to look for a vacuum leak. Found the air filter was not seated correctly. Last time I go to that garage for an oil change......

 

Also many people often assume that low power is caused by clogged exhaust, and in reality thats a rare problem, a loss of fuel pressure is far more common and has most of the exact same symptoms.

 

I second this ^^^^^!

I bought my 98 Sport last year with only 50,000 miles on it. Come to find out, it was hid away in storage (someone didnt want to make a car payment) for close to five years, before I bought it. This caused the fuel in the tank to lacquer up in the tank. Needless to say, I had to replace the pump and injectors before I got better drivability. Long story short, until I get the new tank in and installed, I have to change my fuel filter OFTEN! LOL! When ever my Sport starts to get sluggish, misses perhaps, loss of power, doesnt idle smooth, and chokes on idle, I know its time for a new filter. Sure as heck, I pull the old filter, and reverse flow it to see whats in it, and its gummed up. Its going to keep happening until I get the new tank in because of the tank.

Now I am not saying your tank is the problem, but the symptoms sound a lot like it may be time to check the fuel filter as well. Start there. Its cheap and easy, and it needs to be done regardless as many previous owners of vehicles I come across forget about that service area! LOL!

 

Clean the throttle body valve...both sides.