I have a 1995 Ford E150 van 5.0 engine 176K miles. Ive been having problems starting until I slightly turn the distributor. It will start fine throughout the day. However, after sitting all night it won't start until I slightly turn the distributor. In 2015 I had the ECM and distributor replaced because it would run for about 10 minutes then shut off and wouldn't start again for about 20 minutes. Myself and a friend thing the distributor needs to be replaced because its starts after slightly turning it. Do anyone have any ideas what the problem could be? Thanks.

 

First thing to do is pull codes. Ignition control module could be the culpirt if you have to let it sit for a while for it to start.
If you had the distributor changed out 2 years ago I cant see how you need another one so soon.
Was the timing set correctly by unpluging the spout connector to disable the computer advance, If I remember correctly.

 

First, the Link for testing sensors and other faults.

Seams odd that turning the distributor would 'help' start it......

Three things come to mind........and yes, I read that you replace the ECM (Did you mean the ICM?) and Distributor 2 years ago.......

First, the PIP inside the distributor, generally when they go south, you'll see like a smoked look inside the distributor/cap.

Second, when you replace the distributor, did you use one with the Cast Iron cam gear, and not the steel gear?? The cast gear is needed on this era engine.

Third, have you checked for slop in the timing gear set?? (Which I'm thinking is the rear root of the problem) Too much slop, and when you shut it off, the timing "jumps" and you need to compensate it by turning the distributor.

Do you know how to check for a sloppy timing chain??