2002 ford explorer runs really ruff, when idoling and accelerating,

The 1st thing to replace is the plugs and plug wires, they are goood for about 100,000 miles, then if that doesn't do it you may have more serious concern. issues

Cycle your key on (not start) then off, on, off, then on and leave it on. Now count the flashes from the "check engine light" and get back to us with those codes. It will flash a 2 digit number, but pause briefly between numbers. For example: 3 flashes,pause, then 3 more flashes is code 33. 1 flash, pause , then 5 more would be code 15. When you get 5 flashes, pause, then 5 more, that's code 55 and it just means end of message or codes. You'll also get a short pause between codes as well, so have a pad and paper ready and keep your eyes on the check engine light.

Sounds like a vacuum leak, check your vacuum hoses, intake, throttle body for leaks.

There could be two reasons for the car to run ruff. The fuel and the current. If the fuel is not regular the running may be in jerks. And so would run if the current is not regular either. You must check up both these systems. The plugs could be dirty. The fuel pump could be dirty too. The injectors could be dirty as well. They all need cleaning.

Locate accelerator cable and tight off a bit of the slack till it idles at a good RPM

How many miles....?
First check engine oil label. after that check the pcv valve. could be open all time.

You may want to check for a broken vacume line it will cause a high acceleration. Also have the code extracted and see what it says let me know or post it it would be helpful in giving you a more precise diagnosis.

I have a '94 Altima with 2.4 liter 4 cyl. engine. At around 150K the timing chain and tensioner were replaced - should solve your problem, too. If you're sure the chain is rattling you should really get it serviced now, not later. Also, if your car is running rough it could be more than just the chain and tensioner; it could be your ignition system, such as plugs, coil, distributor, etc. Bottom line is, your car needs to be checked out right away.

some of the parts and what not (ecu ect) my not work on the 92 engine. Check With dealer or on line to see what years are acctually interchangeable. It could be somthing simple like needing to upgrde a sensor or reprograming the computer. Hope this helps

plug the pcv hoses back up listen for a vacuum leak