How do I pull the codes? Its still not starting.
97 Explorer Wont Start again
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Joined: Aug 2004
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97 Explorer Wont Start again
Here we go again, I have a 97 explorer and it wont start again. All the lights and dingers come on when i go to start it, I can hear the fuel pump when I turn the key and it actually turns over but the engine doesnt start up. Any suggestions to what might cause this. It did this about three weeks ago and finally started later that day and ran like a champ since, now its doing it again. 
Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: SoCal
I dont know about other scanners, but an Actron OBD-2 scanner will come with an XLNT instruction manual for how to use it. Take a few minutes to read the manual, then hook up the scanner & go for it. This would be the perfect time to call around to some auto parts stores & buy one. Check out their site at www.actron.com If this was my EX I would also have the factory shop manual & the "electrical & vacuum troubleshooting manual" (EVTM) for it. I do happen to have the EVTM for a 97, which I got from a friend when he sold his 97.
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Cant get error codes till monday
Theres no place here in town that is open to have the codes pulled. We dont have an autozone here, it will more then likely have to be done at the ford garage.
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Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 4,516
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From: SoCal
Sounds like you only have 2 options then, either buy the scanner & see if it can ell you what the problem is, or take it to the dealer. I'd buy the scanner.
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Scanner
I have another question about the scanner, doesnt the truck have to be running to get an accurate reading? The truck still wont start. If it doesnt need to be started for the readings I will get the scanner.
Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 4,516
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From: SoCal
The engine doesnt need to be running. If the check engine light was on the last time you drove it, there will be a code/s. Otherwise there are 3 possibilities, you might get a system pass code. You might get a trouble code/s that you can take care of yourself. You might get a code/s & be better off taking/towing it to a GOOD independant mechanic. Bottom line is the scanner may or may not help you figure out this particular problem, but as far as i'm concerned a scanner is a must have tool in my tool chest.
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We figured it out!
Ha ha it was something really simple but pathetic it took me and my dad allday to figure it out. So I must share this. I was reading on another forum about a Crank shaft senser? Well it said they tapped it and the explorer would start right up, so me and dad went back out there and sure enough we tapped it with his zippo and vrroom vrroom started up and purred like a kitten. Anyway I wanted to thank you for all of you advice today. It was very nice of you to give your time to answer my post. 
So thanks again.
