I need some help in troubleshooting my 04 Tribute ES, 3.0 V6 automatic. 106k miles
After a severely drawn down dead battery, I installed a warranty replacement from Advance Auto.
It started right up and I drove it first on back roads 25-35 mph and it runs perfect. Anything above 35 and it boggs down like its starving for fuel. I ran it for about 6 miles struggling at 35 mph and had to turn around and come back home. It idles perfectly and drives with plenty of
smooth acceleration up to 35mph. No Check Engine Light throughout this ordeal.
Here is what I did so far.
- Connected the code reader to see if there are any pending codes - PASS no codes pending or present, no Check Engine error.
- My first thought was fuel filter/fuel pump. I installed a new fuel filter and no change still bogging.
- I attached a professional fuel pressure gage to the fuel line at the engine and getting a steady 65 PSI. I even placed the gage on the windshield and took it for a ride and the pressure is steady 65 PSI from 0-35 MPH. I even floored it only to get that severe bogging at 35+ and fuel pressure still at steady 65 PSI.
- Also note that it has a new exhaust + CAT front to back 10 months ago.
I was ready to go out and buy a new fuel pump assembly, but not after that test.
My thoughts: Fuel injectors? why would it run so strong and smooth at idle and below 35 mph and also not throw a code.
The only clue I have is when all this started with the drawn down battery and new battery installation. I have decided to try and reset the computer by removing the battery cable and let it sit overnight. I have read that you need to pump the brake 5 times while its disconnected to reset. I have also read that you should tap the battery cable 2-3 times on the post to clear the computer.
--
Any thoughts on this are welcome.
UPDATE:The problem WAS a clogged CAT converter, only about 1 year on it and 6000-7000 miles. I am going to remove the CAT and try and clean it.
It runs like a bear with open exhaust..!!
After a severely drawn down dead battery, I installed a warranty replacement from Advance Auto.
It started right up and I drove it first on back roads 25-35 mph and it runs perfect. Anything above 35 and it boggs down like its starving for fuel. I ran it for about 6 miles struggling at 35 mph and had to turn around and come back home. It idles perfectly and drives with plenty of
smooth acceleration up to 35mph. No Check Engine Light throughout this ordeal.
Here is what I did so far.
- Connected the code reader to see if there are any pending codes - PASS no codes pending or present, no Check Engine error.
- My first thought was fuel filter/fuel pump. I installed a new fuel filter and no change still bogging.
- I attached a professional fuel pressure gage to the fuel line at the engine and getting a steady 65 PSI. I even placed the gage on the windshield and took it for a ride and the pressure is steady 65 PSI from 0-35 MPH. I even floored it only to get that severe bogging at 35+ and fuel pressure still at steady 65 PSI.
- Also note that it has a new exhaust + CAT front to back 10 months ago.
I was ready to go out and buy a new fuel pump assembly, but not after that test.
My thoughts: Fuel injectors? why would it run so strong and smooth at idle and below 35 mph and also not throw a code.
The only clue I have is when all this started with the drawn down battery and new battery installation. I have decided to try and reset the computer by removing the battery cable and let it sit overnight. I have read that you need to pump the brake 5 times while its disconnected to reset. I have also read that you should tap the battery cable 2-3 times on the post to clear the computer.
--
Any thoughts on this are welcome.
UPDATE:The problem WAS a clogged CAT converter, only about 1 year on it and 6000-7000 miles. I am going to remove the CAT and try and clean it.
It runs like a bear with open exhaust..!!
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