Ongoing problem with my X

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May 25, 2016 | 09:55 PM

JoeKan

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Ongoing problem with my X

I have a 2000 Ford X diesel with the 7.3 engine. About 2 years ago whenever I would drive it during the summer, and I would shut it off and then a few minutes later tried starting it again, it would start. It doesn't even turn over or making a clicking sound but it acts like the motor is dead. The lights and all the electrical work, but it doesn't turn over at all. It will start back whenever it cools down. It doesn't happen during the winter time or when its cool outside, only when the weather is hot.
I've replaced both batteries and the starter but nothing happens.
Tonight it did it again and I have to wait 20-30 minutes in the parking lot until it would start again.
Any ideas?
Thanks,
Joe

May 25, 2016 | 09:58 PM

Nicmike

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From: Western AR

Check the starter solenoid on the passenger side fender. Also, there are a couple of fusible links over there that you need to check out. Sounds to me like you have electrical components that are getting hot and not wanting to work until they cool down. Electronics and heat do not play well together...

May 25, 2016 | 10:00 PM

Nicmike

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From: Western AR

Here is a thread that shows some of the parts in pics:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post15717024

May 26, 2016 | 06:43 PM

JoeKan

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Thanks! I appreciate the help

May 26, 2016 | 07:43 PM

Nicmike

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From: Western AR

So, you need a couple of things to happen for your truck to turn over with the starter. You need a connection from 12v (battery) to the starter solenoid, the solenoid has to be grounded (it is to the fender through the mounting bolts), and you need the "exciter voltage" from the ignition in the steering column. Without all 3 of these, your engine will not crank over. You also need a starter that works (obviously). Your problem, according to your description, is brought on by heat. Need to look at the above requirements/components and how they may be affected by heat to a degree that would cause them to not work. An IR thermo (laser) would be a very good thing to borrow or have right now. Check temps on all your components when the problem shows itself, and check those same components when the truck wants to start for you. This is where I would start, and then I would move to a multimeter to start checking for proper grounds and voltages in the starter circuit.

May 27, 2016 | 06:00 AM

Jmatthews

is a BAAAD MAN

Joined: Apr 2005

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From: Winston Salem NC

Next time it doesn't start try the old screw driver on the solenoid trick, usually if it's not at least clicking and your batteries are good, solenoid is bad. I'm sure they are cheap anyway.

My 2002 Ex I don't think has the solenoid on the fender but my 2001 truck did, so I'm assuming you have one there since you have a 2000.

Jun 21, 2016 | 04:49 PM

JoeKan

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I just spent another $200 at the dealer here in Leavenworth to tell me they don't know whats wrong with it. I told them what you had said but they didn't listen...the saga continues...