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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

Do I need a new CPU

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Old Nov 16, 2020 | 05:47 PM
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Toby A.'s Avatar
Toby A.
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Do I need a new CPU

1990 F150, 4.9, auto. Truck has been running good, but recently after disconnecting battery cables (new cables, new ends, new battery) then Reconnecting, truck doesn’t want to run properly. Will barely idle, then smothers out and dies. Will restart with ease, but it just won’t idle correctly. Help! And thanks!
 
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Old Nov 16, 2020 | 06:14 PM
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Run the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) tests and Stored Code display. List any codes you may see and when they were displayed. Your model year may display two or three digit codes. It's a toss up. Highly suggest to invest in an Equus/Inova 3145 code reader. Eliminates counting flashes. Or if the budget is tight use a paper clip....
 
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Old Nov 16, 2020 | 07:19 PM
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One thing to keep in mind, 1980 was a long time ago, any engine control or "computer" device that contains electrolytic capacitors on the board need replacing. Any replacement board you find may have the same issue. These capacitors are not expensive.
 
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Old Nov 17, 2020 | 08:53 AM
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No codes

Originally Posted by rla2005
Run the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) tests and Stored Code display. List any codes you may see and when they were displayed. Your model year may display two or three digit codes. It's a toss up. Highly suggest to invest in an Equus/Inova 3145 code reader. Eliminates counting flashes. Or if the budget is tight use a paper clip....
There are no codes in the computer. Have already checked that. I have replaced idle sensor, fuel sensor, fuel
filter, wires, etc...all the obvious things. Guess that’s why I was wondering if it was all coming down to the CPU.
 
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Old Nov 17, 2020 | 11:35 AM
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Originally Posted by Toby A.
There are no codes in the computer. Have already checked that.
At the very least you should have gotten the System Pass Code 11 or 111 for the KOEO tests and Stored Code display. What did you use to initiate the tests and display?


Originally Posted by Toby A.
I have replaced idle sensor
I assume you are referring to the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)?


Originally Posted by Toby A.
fuel sensor
I have no idea what you are referring to on this one.


Originally Posted by Toby A.
fuel filter, wires, etc...all the obvious things. Guess that’s why I was wondering if it was all coming down to the CPU.
The obvious thing to me is checking fuel pressure at idle, idle with vacuum hose removed, and under load. You can rent a fuel pressure tester at many auto parts stores.
 
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