I have a 1998 F-150 with the 4.2L V6. Since I got it a few weeks ago, it's been having difficulties starting. I say that in the plural because it doesn't always have trouble.

The engine turns over fine aside from when the starter grinds occasionally, but that's a different issue. I find that when the truck's nose is on an uphill incline, it takes an excessive amount of cranking to start. When it does, it idles rough for a second or two and then comes to full power. Sometimes I'll crank it for a few seconds, turn it off, crank again and then ignition is instant. When the nose of the truck is on a downhill grade, starting seems to be no problem at all.

What it seems like is the fuel is having trouble running uphill during starting. A friend and I replaced the fuel filter today to eliminate that potential problem, don't know if it'll help yet. I changed the air filter, that didn't help either. I'm hoping it's not the fuel pump, I don't have real deep pockets. Coolant level seems fine, and near as I can tell the truck's not leaking anything.

Any help here would be mucho appreciated fellas! Thanks!

SnubNose

 

Alright, changing the fuel filter definitely did NOT help the problem. Come on guys, someone here must have an idea.

SnubNose

 

I think step one would be to get your fuel system preasure-tested. This will help to eliminate the fuel pump as a culprit.

Have you pulled your plugs? What condition are they in?

I know you said you're coolant level looks fine, but you need to POSITIVE about that. I'm sure you've heard of the problem of gasket failures in these engines. Until you've nailed down this problem you need to check you're coolant daily. Watch you're oil when you change it for signs of coolant. Pull your plugs and check the cylinders for coolant.

Good luck.

 

Thanks Aegis, I've contacted a shop and the truck will be going in for an inspection and diagnosis a week from Friday. With any luck it's the gaskets and I'll need a new engine, because my warranty covers that. If it's the fuel system, I'll have to start scrounging change...

SnubNose