1998 Explorer 4L Dangerous High RPM Surge

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1998 Explorer 4L 6Cyl 4WD 5 Speed Auto

This engine unexpectedly surges from idle up to as much as 3 or 4 thousand RPM. It can be frightening. The IAC valve was buzzing loudly so we changed it out a couple of times with wreckers parts. With the third replacement valve in there, it hasn't surged yet but we are very leery to drive it for fear of uncontrolled acceleration while in heavy traffic. Is this a known problem or recall with these vehicles. I think it is ridiculous that the design would allow such a dangerous condition!

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I found a list of recalls here:http://www.motortrend.com/cars/1998/...lorer/recalls/

I found hundreds of underhood fire, and unexpected runaway acceleration Complaints here:http://www.carcomplaints.com/Ford/Explorer/1998/engine/

I am not going to replace the IAC valve with a used wreckers part. With such obvious safety hazard potential, I am going to replace it only with a new top quality manufacturer part, like Standard brand.

"stuff happens" is not good enough for me as far as these vehicle flaws are concerned. The recalls listed in the above link should all be addressed, like the bad Cruise Control cable, the sticking/freezing throttle plate, and a fusible link installed into the CC switch harness circuit. I do not remember all the details of all the repairs but they are listed in the above links.
There have been very many fires, accidents, and injuries attributed to these flaws, and one death that I read of. It is not to be taken lightly.

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Here is a link to another forum discussion I am having concerning this problem.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/...d.php?t=411696