I just recently purchased my 2nd explorer (2002 Sport 4.0 SOHC, 5 speed) and yesterday I encounted the dreaded check engine light. This afternoon attempting to start the car it would not sit in idle and I would have to leave it running at a give or take 2000 rpm's. My previously explorer (98 sport 4.0, auto) had the same problem and the dealer recommended replacing all the spark plugs, ect. Im currently living in Santa Barbara, and the weather can sometimes be a little cold but I dont think that is the problem affecting the engine from staying on. Also after I got it started and stayed running it would violently shake and then stall. It also shakes while just idle and I was wondering what I could possibly do so that I can make a safe 4 hour drive back home so I can have my dad and local dealerships handle the problem.
Thanks,
Jedd.