Hard Starting 4.6 2002 Explorer

I have a 2002 explorer with the 4.6 engine about 2 weeks ago it started to have trouble starting, the problem is intermitent so I thought it was a fuel delivery problem. I had the fuel pump checked (was fine) and the fuel filter replaced. But that did not fix the problem.

does any one have any suggestions

please help

thanks

What is it doing? Does it crank a long time before it starts? Or does it start and die? Need just a little more information please.

it usally starts up ok but it has died 3 times after its been starter, also it has 42,000 miles

Check the idle speed control motor. If it does it cold, and runs OK after it finally runs, that is probably the culprit. You can clean them with some success. It is a round object about 3 inches long that has a hose about 1 inch in diameter going to it and one electrical connection. It will be bolted to the throttle body.