97 SR5 needs help

[Recoil Rob]

So I just got done installing the B&M tranny cooler, flushing the transmission and on the way to have the state inspection the CHECK ENGINE light comes on. This is a 3.4 V6.

The mechanic is a good guy so he plugs in his diagnostic and comes up with 9 codes, most serious is an upstream Oxygen sensor, also says I should change the plugs and three wires on the drivers side. The passenger side has coils instead of wires.

He said to be sure to get OEM plugs, what kinds of plugs would that be? NGK?

He told me to make sure to be careful getting the coils unbolted since they look a bit rusty and the O2 sensor is completely rusted, nuts will probably break studs. He says he has seen sensors sealed and held in with SS band clamps.

Any advice here? This truck has 130K original miles but spent years fishing the beaches and there's a lot of rust. Would just like to get it servcieable for short runs in snow and towing light items.


thanks,

Rob

 

[LittleCaesar]

I cannot believe that the ECU gave nine codes at once.

Get all the codes, then post them here.

Plugs and wires, if DIY, should run ya about $50.

Try Kroil to get the nuts off the studs, but if they are too far gone, it may be time for a new exhaust system.

 

[Recoil Rob]

He said that 6 were cylinder misfires, one was the sensor and the other 2 were duplicates.

Can't go back but will change plugs and wires, anyone know what type plugs I should be using and where (other than dealer) to get wires?

 

[TheDurk]

He said that 6 were cylinder misfires, one was the sensor and the other 2 were duplicates.

Can't go back but will change plugs and wires, anyone know what type plugs I should be using and where (other than dealer) to get wires?

I use NGK BKR5EKB-11 (3967) plugs (which are OEM) and the NGK wires (TE-66). Both are available at NAPA and Amazon (Prime eligible) and lots of autoparts stores. I have used the NGK's for 130k at 30k change interval and I have 80k on the wires and I have never seen a misfire code, ever, in 13 years.

 

[Recoil Rob]

Thanks Durk.

 

[4runnpdx]

I'd also try to check your battery connections. Make sure there no corrosion at the terminals, and make sure they are tight.

 

[Recoil Rob]

How much do they diagnostic tools that plug in under the dash cost?

I have my 97 T4R, a 2002 Ford Explorer and a 2009 Honda CRV. I find that until the economy recovers and new home starts get back to pre-2008 levels I have more time on my hands and am doing more of my own auto work.

Are those tools prohibitively expensive or can they be had for a couple hundred bucks? Do you need different software for each make?

How do it work?:noidea:


thanks,

Rob

 

[Srabai]

It is very unlikely that you need to replace all the plugs, wires, o2 sensor and such. If the codes popped up right after you installed the cooler, go back and look at everything you might have touched in the process.

Keep in mind that the code showing an o2 sensor is stating that the sensor detects a lean/rich condition. Unless the code is for the o2 heater element, (if equipped) the sensor is more than likely fine.

I would bet a good bit of money that there is only one thing causing all these codes to be thrown.