On takeoff, my '98 Montero Sport LS is randomly sputtering and will kick-in to normal driving mode after 90 feet or so. It feels like 1 of the spark plugs isnt firing properly. It isnt everytime i come to a complete stop and start again. It likes to do it when im on a slight incline (up). The problem originated when it would sputter after coasting down a hill/ incline and i would go to hit the gas and it would shake and sputter........... and the CES light goes off and on. more details.

miles: 113,000
3.5 v6

thanks in advance to any suggestions besides going to AutoZone for the free diagnostic check. im going to get that today/tomorrow.

 

if nothing else works for you, try checking the fuel filter.

 

thanks..... any quick advice on finding the fuel filter and replacing it.

might be the problem since the air filter is brand new and 3 tanks ago i put fuel additive and the problem wasnt near as bad. huh?

 

You sure one of your spark plug wires didn't come loose?

 

That would seemingly occur more frequently like with bumps and things of that sort, but check them anyway...perhaps it's just a bad wire.
As far as the location of the fuel filter, on your vehicle I cannot say for sure, but look along the frame rails near the rear doors, they are typically in that area. You will be looking for a canister and the lines leading into it will have markings on them to denote it is a fuel line. It should be relatively cheap to buy the filter and change yourself, but a shop will probably charge you in the range of $125 to change it for you.

 

off roader: good point. ill check tonight. couldnt hurt.

dirtwagon: thanks. i did a search on Autozone.com and saw what the part looks like. doesnt look like rocket science. i guess ill get them to run the free diagnostic, then if they have a mor clear answer ill go with that, but most likely with things that are "free", they will probably wont be able to tell what the code actually says. then ill buy the fuel filter.