Got a 03 f150 5.4 have had it probably about 3 or 4 months everything was done and written down with dates in owners manual so it was well taken care of. My problem it's happened about 3 times when I go to start it it barely turns over like it's not getting any gas it did it today and I could smell gas not sure what it is I usually try it again and it will start but very rough then it comes out of it. Could it be fuel filter? Or fuel regulator? Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks.

 

when you say " it barley turns over" you actually mean it is cranking at normal speed, but the motor will not FIRE and start ? When you turn the key "on" but not to the start position, you should hear the fuel pump in the tank run for 2 seconds. That should build up fuel in the fuel rail and prep for start. Do you hear the pump? There is a shrader valve ( like a tire valve) on the fuel rail in the VEE of the motor. You can push the center pin and see if fuel squirts out, or best to use a gauge and see what the fuel pressure is before and after you turn the key ON. If your loosing fuel pressure overnight , it could be a leaking regulator or check valve in the pump..See if the pressure is dropping. .......... new filter can not hurt if you don't know the age.

 

I wouldn't say it's turning over at normal speed it's like it's not getting fuel I guess it's kinda hard to explain I do hear the fuel pump.

 

If the motor cranks slow or does not crank, you have an electrical problem. If it cranks buy just will not start, it normally is fuel related. Since you said it does not start immediately, but will start on the 2-3 try and then stumbles for a few seconds, that sounds like lack of fuel. Since it is OK after it is running, I would assume the pump is OK. Sounds like you are bleeding off fuel pressure when it sets overnight. Check the pressure at the fuel rail by pushing in on the Schrader valve... another test is to turn the key to "on" for 5 seconds and let the pump build up pressure... do that 3 consecutive times, then try to start and see if it works better.. The 3 consecutive times will allow the pump to build up the line full , if it is draining back.

 

I think maybe the battery connections could be corroded or the starter is attempting to die soon. The running rough could be from it getting loaded up a bit during the slow cranking and takes a bit to clear out. Just my 2cwents. Worth about 1.2 after taxes.