Intermittent starting issue

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Mar 26, 2015 | 09:22 AM

missouguy

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Intermittent starting issue

2002 7.3 PS TD.

Lately sometimes when I get in and start the truck all is well. Then the next time it will spin like a top, but not fire. New batteries. Then it will fire right up. It may go a few weeks, or days, then it happens again. Temperature does not seem to be a factor. It also doesn't matter if the engine is hot or cold. Once when rounding a corner at low speed, it just died, then started right up.

I recently changed the fuel and air filters. I think the glow plugs are getting old. In cool weather I turn the key on for about 1 min. before cranking. I have 110,000 on the engine with all original parts.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I am NOT a mechanic, but can change parts

Thanks in advance.

Frank

Mar 26, 2015 | 01:15 PM

BigAlsPSD

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From: Pea Ridge, AR

Cranking and not starting I would personally want to view some data to see what parameters are being met that are required to start, ideally.

However, one thing that doesn't always throw a code, that can cause the symptoms is a CPS, and at a relatively inexpensive cost(around $20) it's a simply enough part to "throw at it" if starting conditions can not be monitored.

Mar 27, 2015 | 06:38 PM

missouguy

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Thanks for the reply. I have a new CPS, if that is a camshaft position sensor, or is it crankshaft? I have had one in my glove box since before the recall. I'll give that a try.

Thanks again.

Frank

May 11, 2015 | 10:03 AM

missouguy

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Just FYI it turned out to be the fuel pressure regulator and sensor. Also some wiring. Just $980 at the local stealership.

Frank

Jul 8, 2015 | 01:49 PM

tomdavis

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From: Houston Texas

Quote:

Originally Posted by missouguy

Just FYI it turned out to be the fuel pressure regulator and sensor. Also some wiring. Just $980 at the local stealership.

Frank

I am having a similar issue and wonder if the "stealership" fix really was the problem. Has it re-occured? When yours finally started did it blow white smoke (unburned fuel) from the exhaust. Mine does not, hence I think it is not getting fuel and your solution could be the answer to my problem.

Jul 8, 2015 | 01:58 PM

missouguy

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In cold weather when it finally started, it did blow the white smoke. In warm weather it didn't, but still would not start. When the Ford guys put on the computer it said the pressure regulator and sensor was the problem. It has started just like a new one since.

Not sure about the $900+, but it was out of my "pay grade", so I let the pros take are of it. Parts have a two year warranty regardless of mileage.

Good luck.

Frank

Jul 8, 2015 | 02:23 PM

montanasteve

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For Tom, you're in Texas, so I'm guessing glow plugs aren't your problem. Though, most people aren't aware that help from the glow plugs is required at temps even up into the 50's.

You may want to start a new thread to get some new ideas. How much fuel in your tank? Our trucks have an issue with the fuel pickup foot falling apart, causing rough running and no-start issues when below 1/4 tank fuel. You also need adequate oil to fire the injectors. Check the oil level, change the oil if it's old. Start there first, and don't be afraid to start a new thread if you've still got issues.