Error code #18, what should I do?
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Joined: Jun 2004
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Error code #18, what should I do?
I cannot start my '86 F250 302 EFI (cranks and cranks but no start). In addition to a couple of temp sensors out of range (code 21 & 24), I have code 18 showing on the reader (Loss of tach input/ignition diagnostic monitor - circuit failure/spout circuit grounded). I have not found any problems with the wiring. Should I replace the TFI module, or is there a test I can perform to test it before I yank it? I'm getting spark, I seem to have fuel, this is really beginning to **** me off. I'm ready to drive it off a cliff but I have to get it started first! 
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Joined: Mar 2003
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From: Sarnia, Ontario, CANADA!
My truck runs perfectly fine but I also have a code 18. There have been a few posts on here about it but there does not seem to be an answer for it. It is weird. I have even tried to disconnect the battery as well but no luck. 
-Matt
-Matt
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Update! Well, I could have and should have listened to Locknkey's advice. I replaced the module and of course, no change. While checking to make sure the rotor was turning, while hand-turning the engine, I found excessive play in the timing chain. I thought I'd better check the timing, as I now had an idea what was wrong. Sure enough, the timing was way off. I corrected the timing, got the engine to start and run but it was rough. Pulled the front timing cover off and found a very loose, bone dry timing chain. The sprockets were off by a couple of teeth, which was my whole problem. There is so much sludge in the motor that no oil was getting to the chain. I'm hoping to figure out where the oil path is and clean it before installing a new chain. Needless to say, I am very relieved to have found the problem and know that I can correct it relatively easily and cheaply. 
