Recently had the "check engine" light come on. Suspect a pollution control issue but do not have the service manual (97 4.6L). Plan to go to a parts store and have them use their equipment to scope out the particular code problem and repair.

Any experience out there would be appreciated, please?

 

When you get the codes, pick up a Chilton's. They have the code descriptions. Post the numbers and code descriptions and we'll help narrow down your problem.

-Kerry

 

i had a "check engine soon" come on. don't know if that is same as your light. i was on interstate and drove less than 20 miles to a dealer. a fuel injector stuck open and the engine bent a rod. few more minutes and it would have completely destroyed itself. in my case that would have been preferrable. ford would have had to give a fresh engine on that. its a new supercrew lariat with a fresh rod and piston.

 

Your "Check Engine Light" coming on could mean anything. I agree, have the codes pulled at your local autoparts store and go from there. Just because the CEL comes on does not mean it is going to self destruct! I maintain several 4.6's where I work with well over 120,000 on each. The most common CEL code is a misfire on a cylinder. Check the codes and get back to us, we'll go from there.