2002 Ford E-Series Van Rough acceleration, smooth idle

2002 FORD E-SERIES VAN
89,986 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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DANIELTB
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At start-up, the van idles fine, no misses. But as I drive, after a few minutes, the van begins to hesitate and lurch. As I accelerate aggresively(ie. up a hill) it has a hard time and power is very low. If I stop and put in park, it still idles fine.
I replaced the easy stuff (plugs and wires) but to no avail. Not sure if the O2 sensors need replacing or not.
Jan 9, 2009 at 7:46 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:
Make sure the catylatic converter isn't in the process of plugging. Listen for hissing from exhaust or other sounds. also, it the check engine light on? Have you had the computer scanned?
Also check for vacuum leaks.
Joe
Jan 10, 2009 at 2:38 PM
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DANIELTB
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Yeah the check engine light is on. And as it starts to stumble through accelerating, the check engine light flashes for a bit then goes solid again.
Jan 11, 2009 at 1:13 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Here is what I suggest, most nationally recognized parts stores will scan the computer for free. Take your van to one and have them check that for you. It will identify where the problem is coming from.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Jan 11, 2009 at 1:15 PM
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DANIELTB
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Just for giggles I'm going to clean the mass airflow sensor off. I've been reading that a dirty one can affect poor mileage as well as cause these symptoms which I have noticed a loss of about 25-30 miles off per quarter of a tank. It's been a gradual loss of mileage up until now with the poor performance just coming up recently.
Jan 11, 2009 at 6:33 PM