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97 expi won't remain started

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Old Aug 30, 2006 | 03:31 PM
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97 expi won't remain started

I have a 97 Expi, with just over 200k miles. My latest problem, is that I was getting into the vehicle to leave, I put my key into the ignition, and theft light continuously flashes, and the engine won't stay running. I realize that it is probably not reconzing my key, so as soon as I get the opportunity later today...I am gonna see if it the spare. If it doesn't, where do I need to start next? Has anyone out there ever
experienced this problem. My vehicle is currently stranded at a local shopping facility. I am hoping it is just my key!!!
 
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Old Aug 30, 2006 | 04:17 PM
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If it continues to run if you pump the gas/rev the engine but dies at idle - check the IAC. Idle Air Control valve. Read the manual regarding any anti-theft specifics.
 
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Old Aug 30, 2006 | 10:20 PM
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sounds like pats module is bad.
 
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Old Aug 30, 2006 | 11:21 PM
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From what I understand, it sounds like it wants to start, but dies immediately? It sounds like a bad fuel pump to me.
Here's a test. If it works, it means it's definitely a bad fuel pump, but if it doesn't, don't rule it out.
Put the key in the ignition and cycle the key 5-6 times between off and on, without trying to start it.
Once you've cycled the key a few times, try and start it. If you get a second or two of running, it is definitely a bad fuel pump. Turning the key to on pressurizes the fuel system. Doing it repeatedly builds more pressure in the fuel system, which you wouldn't need if you had a good pump. It's like pumping the gas pedal with a carb under the hood. Try it out, let us know what happens.
 
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Old Aug 31, 2006 | 09:14 AM
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Thanks for all your input and suggestions. After I posted yesterday, I let the expi sit for a while, and then I went back and was gonna try starting it with my spare key, instead I thought that I would try it with my key, just for the heck of it....guess what..It Started, and hasn't given a minutes trouble since. But I think there is still a problem, though.. I talked to a guy last night, who is a manager of an O'Rielly's Auto Parts, he said that there is a little sensor in the ignition that reads the key, and it is probably wearing out.. this does make since to me, because the vehicle is almost 10 years old. Is there anyway to disconnect the anti theft system? Thanks again, everyone!!!!!!!!!!
 
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Old Aug 31, 2006 | 09:49 AM
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If the sensor was wearing out, why isn't the same problem cropping up while you're using the spare key? The sensor should be giving trouble regardless of which key is in the ignition. I would drive with the spare key for awhile. If the problem is gone, I would lean towards replacing the first key.
 
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Old Aug 31, 2006 | 12:56 PM
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If you have two working keys, you can program a third yourself, and save the ridiculous cost for programming at the dealer. And, if you do a search on EBAY, you can find the blanks for about $10, along with the instructions for how to program. Just take the blank and one of your original keys and have it cut. Then, follow the instructions to program the new one. Don't remember the exact sequence for programming, but its pretty simple.
 
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Old Aug 31, 2006 | 12:59 PM
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on the 97 you only need one working key to program another.
 
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Old Sep 14, 2006 | 09:15 PM
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I have a 2000 Epedition with a bad IAC valve. The car starts only if I have my foot on the gas once I release it the car dies. However once the car is warm it works just fine. It only fails me in the morning during cold starts. I would like to try and repair it myself would anyone recommend it? Has anyone ever repaired an Idle Air control valve on an Eddie Bauer Ford Expedition 5.4 engine?
 
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Old Sep 14, 2006 | 11:41 PM
  #10  
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From: Pullman Washington
Originally Posted by monopoly
I have a 2000 Epedition with a bad IAC valve. The car starts only if I have my foot on the gas once I release it the car dies. However once the car is warm it works just fine. It only fails me in the morning during cold starts. I would like to try and repair it myself would anyone recommend it? Has anyone ever repaired an Idle Air control valve on an Eddie Bauer Ford Expedition 5.4 engine?
IAC should be attached to the Throttle body with 2-3 bolts and one elec. connection. Simple change IF that is the actual problem. You might have better luck unplugging the connection until you replace it. It should just stay wide open and let air pass when unplugged.

Brad
 
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Old Sep 15, 2006 | 08:24 AM
  #11  
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Monopoly

Symptoms suggest IAC, but check the codes first just in case some other symptom has been flagged by the PCM.

If indeed it is your IAC, check out this thread, which gives you a picture of where to look on the 5.4 Triton:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/5...t=iac+pictures

This is a simple part swap-out, but you can also try cleaning your old one before replacing. I have done this a few times by cleaning with SeaFoam and a old toothbrush to remove carbon build up and sticking of the valve. The Haynes manual also gives you an electrical test procedure for the IAC to make sure the circuit is still functional. Can't remember the ohms resistance target off the top of my head.

Hope this helps you.
 
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