Well my explorer still wont start.

We've replaced coilpack, MAF(got a CEL code saying there was a low signal coming from it), and dropped the exhaust (first thinking the catalytic covertor had clogged). Still not getting any spark. Next to check is the Ignition Control Box then the ECU.

My question is, can a ford explorer 4x4 be towed with a front wheel dolly. I heard that it will burn up the tranny. I was also told that since it's push button 4x4 that we can't put it into neutral. Any thoughts or suggestions? I need it towed today.

 

Shaun

Shaun P. Duffy & Co.
Team Icy Blu
Cloud 9 Customs

Anyone???   My question is, can a ford explorer 4x4 be towed with a front wheel dolly. I heard that it will burn up the tranny. I was also told that since it's push button 4x4 that we can't put it into neutral. Any thoughts or suggestions? I need it towed today.   Shaun

icy blu

Well, since no one else has jumped on this, I'll give some opinions. Note these are educated guesses...there may be something I'm missing. I've never tried it, but I don't know how being a push-button would affect the rear wheels. The front wheels will be stationary. If the 4WD is disengaged, the fact that it's a push-button shouldn't matter. If you can pull a fuse to prevent the accidental engagement of the 4WD, that might not be a bad thought. Otherwise, if the 4WD is disengaged and the transmission is in neutral, it should be *possible* to tow the truck on a dolly with the rear wheels on the ground. That said, I wouldn't recommend towing an automatic for any significant distance without dropping the driveshaft. My suspicion is that it wouldn't do anything good for the tranny, though a short tow to a shop for repair probably wouldn't hurt anything. Andy

ah it is an automatic and it's a good 20-25 miles away.   Shaun

Andy

> My question is, can a ford explorer 4x4 be towed with a front wheel dolly. I heard that it will burn up the tranny. I was also told that since it's push button 4x4 that we can't put it into neutral. Any thoughts or suggestions? I need it towed today. > > > > Shaun >

How many keys did you get with your explorer? I've seen this and it was the key gone bad. If you put an unprogrammed key in the truck will just turn away but not fire. How to tell? I don't really remember but I think the alarm light flashed faster As for towing, yes and no. You can put it in neutral, just fine. Its slipping hubs with a selonoid in the tranny. There is nothing more engaged. You can tow, but only at about 35 MPH for short distances. Long hauls it is best to use a rollback. If you want to dolly, unhook the driveline (requires 8 point 1/2 drive I think) and wire it up to the bed. Don't let it slip out of the transmission.   Good luck. Disclaimer - All this stuff is my professional opinion. If you break it, it ain't my fault.   CR

icy blu

BTY, let us know what wasn't

Sorry your Explorer is sick. The push button electronic 4x4 does not have a neutral setting to disconnect the transfer case, so I'd guess the best thing to do if you want to tow it on its rear wheels would be to disconnect the driveline from the rear wheels (physically, from under the car). -AC > > > Message: 1 >

I got a flatbed today. Hopefully I'll have it running again this weekend.  

the 91 doesn't have programmed keys. I believe it is the Ignition Control Module. I've already checked the MAF (which was causing a CEL) and the coil pack.   Shaun

Chris

I'm stumped.   We replaced the Ignition Control Module and the ECU and still no start. I'm going to have him check the compression again to see if the timing chain snapped.   Other than that I have no idea.   Shaun

icy blu

Also remember the ignition is fired off the timing chain, or rather the gear in front. It can be that sensor, Usually out of time, you will get poping or backfire, pull plug 1 and place a screwdriver or rod into the cylinder and see if the piston moves. (pretty sure it is if your hearing it turn over. You said you already replaced the coil pack?

icy blu

Hello Shaun,

 

Just my $0.02 worth but have you checked the relays in the Power Distribution Box inside the engine compartment on the passenger side?  There’s a Fuel Pump and a PCM relay in there that also gave me a no-start scenario a few months ago.

 

I only saw this now because I just got into the group so I don’t know if you’ve already eliminated this possibility.

 

Kit

 

 

 

yep coil was replaced.

Chris

Yes I've checked all the fuses.   Thanks,
Shaun

Kit