97 Explorer Security Systems

Does the 97 have the coded key(s)?

From what I can tell in the Ilco 2004 Transponder Guide, 1998 was the first year transponder keys were used in the Explorer.

Have you checked the owner's manual to see if it mentions transponder keys or how to program new keys?

-Rod

There's no mention of them in the manual, but there is mention of the PATS system.

With the symptoms the truck is having, it's either an alternator, fuel pump, or key. (I'm hoping for 'key'.)

Ahh, now we're getting somewhere. So what are the symptoms? Is there a "Theft" or "Security" light that comes on or flashes rapidly when you try to start the vehicle? Have you tried a different key?

-Rod

I didn't know that the key was suspect. I will try a different key.

The 'symptoms' were it quit OTR, and refused to start again. I toggled the inertia switch, but with it being OTR, I didn't want to get into major surgery. There is no flashing Theft light.

While I was there, I looked under the rear of the vehicle in order to tap the fuel tank, in case the fuel pump has an intermittent condition. While there, I noticed that the fuel recirculation boxes that ride on the plate at the rear of the body were about to fall off. It seems that the plate is 97% rusted out. GONE. Could that cause a poor fuel condition?

A faulty transponder key would not cause the vehicle to stall, it would only prevent it from starting. But if the transponder key were the cause of the no-start, you should get a rapidly flashing "Theft" or "Security" indicator when trying to start the vehicle. You might try having the vehicle checked for pending diagnostic codes. Many of the auto parts stores offer this service free of charge. Beyond that, you're probably stuck waiting for it to happen again and checking for lack of spark or lack of fuel.

-Rod

It's OTR. If it was in any running condition, I'd have had it to the Auto Parts Store or at home where I could have gotten a better look at it.

(At least we can assume it's not keys, and I can start the fuse/relay/switches diagnostics. Thanks!)

So does "OTR" mean "On The Road?" Any chance you can have someone check the exhaust for the smell of unburned fuel when you crank the engine, trying to get it started? I'm trusting that it's on longer on the road so you can spend a bit more time troubleshooting to determine if you are missing fuel or spark. Please post back as you learn more.

-Rod