If this is a '99 through '02 Cougar, this sounds like the so called "Moosing" problem, which is a problem with the Idle Air Control Valve (IACV), and is fixed by taking the IACV out, its connected to the upper intake manifold, and either cleaning it thoroughly, or replacing it.
If an alternator is going bad it can cause a rough idle in a 1993 Subaru Legacy. Cold temperatures in the winter can also cause a rough idle in the Subaru Legacy.
Need a little more information. there are a number of reasons why your cougar would run rough. Anywhere from the mass oxygen sensor to the idle control sensor, oxygen sensors and on and on.
throttle body or idle air control value
Almost all GM products idle rough when its cold but, if it continues it may be the tps swich.
I just changed fuel filter,pump,sparks plugs and wires on mine and it runs great!
The choke mechanism on your 98 Explorer could be sticking. The EGR valve could also not be functioning right. Either of these issues could cause the rough idle problem.
Why does my 2001 kia sportage idle rough?
rough idle smell gas
why does my vr commodore idle rough when at complete stop
When the idle goes rough, you must idle the plugs. Else the car plugs roughly.
With mine, the rough idle was fixed by changing the spark plug wires.
It may be in need of a good tune up.