2005 Mercury Mountaineer 4.0L V6. Rich reading on O2 sensors, brand new spark plugs fouling after a month or so.
The engine would crank but not start. I replaced all the spark plugs and that fixed it for a month or two. Same problem. I take the spark plugs out and see that most are fouled. I replace all 4 O2 sensors, the MAF, and the vapor purge valve. No dice, same engine codes about running rich. The engine runs noticeably rough around 740 RPM at idle, and there is a smell of fuel.
All the research I've done points to an issue with the fuel injectors, possible one stuck open. Sounds like I could replace them all, which would require an intake manifold removal which I'd prefer to leave as a last resort. Other suggestions I've found involve running carb cleaner directly through the fuel rail. I've heard of people having good results with this, though there are some warnings about carb cleaner running hot and affecting seals.
Looking for advice on next steps. Thank you all!