2003 3.0 runs rough

[mtm006]

Yesterday I went to start my 2003 3.0, and it started, but it ran really rough, and put out a huge cloud of white smoke (which it has never done before). I looked at the tach and it was barely at 500 rpm's (on a cold start it usually hovers around 2000 until it warms up). To compare it to something, it was running like a 2-stroke engine with the choke on, almost like the air/fuel mixture was too rich. Also the lights were flickering and were very dim. Any suggestions as to what caused this? I turned it off, and started it again, and it seems to be running fine now.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

white smoke is usually antifreeze or water (steam).

but if its running fine now i wouldnt worry about it, must have been a fluke.

 

[09ajmaros]

yea I think wicked is right. mine had only one bad start last winter and from then on I used my engine block heater when parked outside. these 3.0's are good starters though!

 

[betomonroy]

If your 3.Slow has been parked for awhile check the fluids. And let's hope nobody has tampered with them by adding water or sugar. Check vaccum hoses just in case. Your low idle may be related to something else also.