151k miles.

I have noticed that the Jeep doesn't want to idle steady when I first start it in the morning. THIS morning it died after running for about 30 seconds, I then restarted it and it ran but for about a minute it idled rough. High-low-high low and then it settled down and became more steady.

What should I check first? I did toss in some injector cleaner this morning after filling up. Should I pull the fuel filter and check that also, and can somebody please share with me where it is?

 

The fuel filter is in the gas tank attached to the fuel pump. Not a fun thing to change. But, I don't know if that is your problem.
Try to give us more info.
Will it stay running when you keep gas to it?
Does it get better over time? (if you drive it)
Almost sounds emissions related.

As must info as possible.

 

It does it only when it's cold. My old Ford Explorer did that years ago and it was that stupid O2 sensor, I replaced that and it ran fine afterwards. I just got this thing a year ago and don't know much about it.

 

Could be lots of things. I would start by cleaning the IAC, idle air controls valve.

 

Carbon build up on the valves will soak up fuel when first started and cause problems like this. A top engine cleaning will help dissolve the carbon deposits. GM Top Engine cleaner or BG Induction Service.
Also as stated above make sure the Throttle bore is clean. Open the throttle pate and scrub the bore and both sides of the plate with carb cleaner/gum cutter. Also spray in the port next to the plate into the IAC motor.

After cleaning the vaves and TB you should notice better performance in all conditions.

I run a can of BG 44K in my tank and clean my TB every couple months.

 

Ford Explorers and O2 sensors!!
O2 sensors in the older Explorers caused all kinds of problems.
I have replaced MANY!!

 

Totally lost now. I have no idea where those parts are.

 

I would actually start with the upstream O2 sensor. I replaced mine after having similar (though less severe) issues with idling and acceleration. The part was only $60 (make sure you get the NTK... seriously.. just don't get anything else) and put it in yourself. I did mine in a parking lot and it took me maybe 15 minutes. Fortunately our o2 sensors are screwed in, rather than welded. It's located off the exhaust pipe that connects the cat to the exhaust manifold (driver's side). The difference was substantial.

Actually - a cheaper diagnostic would be to disconnect the sensor. When the ECU doesn't receive any input from the sensor (because it's not connected) it defaults to factory parameters. If you're running ok without the sensor, you know that's the issue.

 

Cleaning the IAC and TB are virtually free.

 

i had a similar problem. cleaned/replaced all the sensors on my throttlebody and my crankshaft positioning sensor and fuel pump and coil packs...

it was my distributor thing. also try bumping the timing. if you run the engine loosen the retention bolt and turn it slightly, you can hear how it affects your idle. find where it idles smoothly. BUT!!! make a scratch mark where it originally was so you can put it back if it dosent help.

might have to do a tune up. plugs wires anddistributor.

 

maybe this will help:

Idle Air Control Module is the IAC motor
Clean it by spraying thru the Idle Air Passage with the engine running



rear side view of throtle body