Engine "shudders" occassionly

[redoctober2]

Strange problem here...I have an 01 Ranger Edge 4x4 with the 4.0L engine. I currently have 159,000 miles and it runs like a champ. No leaks, no replacement parts other than a catalytic converter and one oxygen sensor. However, every once in a while and by that I mean perhaps once a month or longer, I will be driving along and the engine shudders like it just hiccuped or something. It acts like a miss and generally does it when I am running over 50 mph. I did have the plugs and wires replaced at 100k and the idiot mechanic crossed two wires which toasted my cat. His solution was to the gut the cat and the resonators without my consent which made my truck sound like a dump truck. Needless to say, after threatening to sue, the repair shop refunded me in full for the work and replacement cat. I then found another reputable mechanic who installed the cat and sensor. I don't know if this problem relates to the above work or not but I did not have this problem until around the same time. I have had it to the shop and nothing shows up on the computer...Any ideas?

 

[97ranger4x4]

Well it does not sound like that would be your problem. if you were having issues with the o2 sensor it would pop up a code. Just curious but have you ever replaced your fuel filter? 160k miles is a lot. I would replace that and see how it goes. Maybe run some fuel injector cleaner and let us know how it goes. How long does the miss usually last for? Since it comes on every month or so I am guessing not that long.

 

[redoctober2]

The miss lasts just a couple of seconds, sometimes when it happens it will happen a few times every few minutes then stops. No, I have never replaced the fuel filter, I was under the assumption that when it is clogged, you will not get fuel period.

 

[97ranger4x4]

yeh but I guess it wouldn't be a bad thing to replace anyways. And since they are cheap and easy to replace (Assuming you have the fuel line disconnector tool) I say its cheap insurance. According to the Ford, you should change it every 30k miles. I am sure your overdo for a fuel filter change then.

I'm not sure if this link will work for you. But if you search Fords website you can enter your truck info and look at the service intervals for changing and checking parts.
http://www.genuineservice.com/genuineservice/en/QCMFullView

 

[redoctober2]

ok..here is the latest. This shudder occurred the other day under the following conditions:

1. It was below freezing. The engine had warmed up and was running fine.
2. When passing a slower vehicle, I tried to accelerate going up a hill and it kinda just bogged down so I backed off. Shortly after that, it did the shudder things three time within 5 minutes and hasn't re-occurred in 3 days.

This is really weird and kinda hard to identify. I am kinda worried yet it runs perfectly 99% of the time. Sigh am I being a nickpicker here...

 

[rangerbert]

I have the same problem. Mine is an 02 with 63,000 miles on it. I've changed the plugs,wires with Motorcraft, changed pcv valve, fuel filter, air filter all within the last 6 months. Still have the problem cel light doesn't come on. I've even ran several bottles (6 or more) of fuel injector cleaner through. It doesnt matter if its cold or hot or raining or snowing outside it still does it. So I could use some help too. Didnt mean to hijack this thread

 

[metwohot4you]

I have the same thing with my ranger. When im cruising at 50-60 mph and the truck gets a load on it (up hill grade- even slight) It will get the hip-cup sometimes as I call it. Changed my plugs, wires, fuel filter, and cleaned the K&N and its still there. I guess its maybe one of those ford wonders.

 

[tractor_boy]

Did any of you guys ever figure this problem out because I am struggling with similar symptoms in my 93 4.0, they are just a bit more noticeable. Here's the thread I posted up on it tonight, if you wouldn't mind taking a look. http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=47966
Thanks,
Chris

 

[nitrofan1]

On fuel filters they should be replaced at least every 25,000 miles as regular service, more so if you use it for more than daily driving. Considering what it costs to replace injectors and such a $10 filter is cheap insurance.

No codes come up usually mean a mechanical issue vs a sensor issue, especially on OBD II vehicles. There can be a sensor issue but it's rare without a light coming on.

The best option would be to have someone that has an actual diagnostic scanner on hand that can see if the PCM is the problem.

 

[Blueox]

Same problem!

Seems like once a week to once or twice a month. A hicup. Short, one maybe two seconds at most. 84,000 miles and all maintenance done except fuel filter. Hummmm!

 

[nitrofan1]

When you get the filter at the parts store be sure to get a spring lock tool. It will ease the get home and what the hell look as you go to replace it.