97, 4.2. Initial start fails, then starts fine. This is only when cold, like first thing in the morning. Fuel filter, plugs, and idle air control valve motor have been replaced and the throttle body has been cleaned. What should I look at next?

 

Well, first of all - Welcome Aboard!

Glad to have you hear and hope you stay a while!

Honestly, that's ALMOST normal on our trucks, but your truck not starting every morning on the first try is odd. Does it make any kind of strange noise when turning over? I was thinking maybe the starter, but it actually sounds like maybe it's fuel related. Like your truck is not getting enough of a kick to start...but once you turn it over once, it is ready or something.

I have a 2003 and it won't start at the first try about once a week or so. Stick around, you'll get your answer.

 

Its not the starter. Turns over fine. Just coughs and sputters. If I pump the accelerator, it will keep going, smooth out and run fine. The motor only has 69,000 miles on it. Its annoying but maybe normal??
I should also note that an extended time at a stoplight will result in rough idle. Does that help the diagnosis?

 

69,000 miles.......Have you changed your plugs and wires ?

 

Plugs yes (although NOT Motorcraft), wires no.

 

Brian- Do those need to be changed at 50K? JW while we are on that topic because mine is at 43K! Go along with reastep!

 

How is your coolant level? Have you had to add any lately? I hope this does not apply to you but read this website anyway;
www.leakingfords.com

 

Try waiting a second from when you turn the ignition on to when you actually crank the engine. Once the ignition is turned on, the fuel pump will run for about 2 seconds as it brings the system to operating pressure. Try starting it after the fuel pump shuts off.

 

It has been my experience, and judging from what I have heard from others, 70-80,000 seems to be a reasonable life expectency (both plugs and wires).

 

This is a wild thought:

My wife's car was idling rough and didn't start all that good. Happened to find out that it was the MAP sensor. Now, I don't know if our trucks have one or if all vehicles have one. It's a thought anyways. Hey, what do I know?



David

 

lol

Thanks Brian, I will probably wait until 70K-80K then to do this. I didn't quite fully understand you but did that mean that you changed all yours at 50K?

 

Homer,
No harm done w/ 50,000 mile change, but I think they should be ok for a little longer. But, as always, your results may vary!

 

How much more truth can be told than the above statement?

 

None lol...thanks brian

 

I tried Crazy001's suggestion, but not much help. What I have done is give it a couple of seconds after turning on the ignition, then pressing the accelerator down maybe a third, then starting. Starts o.k., but I'm not satisfied. Shouldn't have to do this, in my opinion. Guess I'll try plug wires.