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1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks 1987 - 1996 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350 and larger pickups - including the 1997 heavy-duty F250/F350+ trucks

Warm Weather Drivability Issue

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Old Dec 30, 2012 | 09:30 PM
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TX92F150's Avatar
TX92F150
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Warm Weather Drivability Issue

I have a 1992 F150 w/5.8L engine. The truck is a very well-kept original, in dead-stock condition with about 135K miles. During warm/hot weather, the truck seems down on power, and has occasional rough idle issues. When the weather is below about 40*F, the truck seems more powerful and generally has better drivability. This is not a severe issue, just noticable as the weather changes.

I've performed all the typical checks and fixes; new plugs/wires/cap/rotor, checking for vacuum leaks, checking for wiring damage, etc. I'm wondering if it could be the ECU or other module that has become temperature-sensitive.

Are there any common electronic issues that crop up on these models? Any help is appriciated.

Cheers,

JD
 
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Old Dec 30, 2012 | 10:49 PM
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AndrewW
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I have a '96 F-150 with the 4.9 in it. Noticed the same problem that you have and looked into it some. Do you have a single or duel tank model, and if so, does the idle change at all when you switch tanks?
 
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Old Dec 31, 2012 | 01:01 AM
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TX92F150
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Originally Posted by AndrewW
I have a '96 F-150 with the 4.9 in it. Noticed the same problem that you have and looked into it some. Do you have a single or duel tank model, and if so, does the idle change at all when you switch tanks?
Mine is a dual-tank vehicle. I haven't noticed a difference between tanks, but haven't really looked in that direction. I will try that tomorrow and see if I find a difference. Was your problem related to the tank selection?

Thanks,

JD
 
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Old Dec 31, 2012 | 01:46 PM
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My guess would be the ignition module on the distributor, especially if it's not a Motorcraft unit.
 
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Old Dec 31, 2012 | 05:15 PM
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TX92F150
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Originally Posted by jumbofordman
My guess would be the ignition module on the distributor, especially if it's not a Motorcraft unit.
All I see in/on the distributor is the ignition pick-up. Is that the component you're talking about? The distributor has a flat pad cast into the side of it below the cap, but nothing is mounted there, and no holes are drilled/threaded. Could it be the ignition module mounted on the LH inner fender beneath the cruise control servo?

Thanks,

JD
 
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Old Jan 2, 2013 | 10:35 PM
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My problem was that the pump in tank two was putting out about 15 PSI of pressure where as it should be around 45 PSI. I would constantly use it since the level float in tank one doesn't work on a dependable basis, so I never thought to use it until I wanted to rule out restricted fuel lines/filter. But now I come to find my bypass valve has gone bad and I now have the magical, never-ending tank. $350 bucks later...
 
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Old Jan 3, 2013 | 08:09 AM
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Originally Posted by TX92F150
All I see in/on the distributor is the ignition pick-up. Is that the component you're talking about? The distributor has a flat pad cast into the side of it below the cap, but nothing is mounted there, and no holes are drilled/threaded. Could it be the ignition module mounted on the LH inner fender beneath the cruise control servo?

Thanks,

JD
Correct, the Ignition Control Module on your truck is located on the driver side inner fender. They are less susceptible to heat like the distributor mounted version, but not 100% immune. The issue you describe is very common to this vintage Ford vehicle. The most common causes are the Ignition Control Module (ICM) or the PIP (aka Stator sensor) inside the distributor.

The ICM can be removed and tested at many auto part stores. If it is found to be faulty make sure you get a gray colored Push-Start style replacement ICM. Many parts manuals are wrong, including Ford, they will most likely try to sell you a black CCD-style ICM which will cause other issues if you install it.

The PIP is not as easily tested. It usually boils down to a process of elimination.
 
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