Starting Problem
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,613
Likes: 2
From: Gainesville, FL
79,
Your explanation is weak,
I think you mean that when you turn the key and hold it in the start position for a few seconds, then the starter engages and the vehicle starts?
This could be a few things. Does the starter lug or turn over slowly? If so, you've probably have dirty cables or a weak ground. If it kicks in full strength then it could be your solenoid or ignition switch. Is any other electrical item working funny. Does your blower fan surge at all during normal driving? Does your dash lights ever flicker? What about your gages? Do they work correctly?
If any of these problems occur you may have a bad cab to block ground. This can cause starting problems in its worst case form. Finally, the power source to the igniytion switch may be corroded. This wire bolts in on the hot side of the siolenoid and is prone to corroding. Leaver the vehicle in the ignition run position and wiggle the wires. You'll hear the relays jumping in and out if the connection is weak.
Good Luck,
KingFisher
Your explanation is weak,
I think you mean that when you turn the key and hold it in the start position for a few seconds, then the starter engages and the vehicle starts?
This could be a few things. Does the starter lug or turn over slowly? If so, you've probably have dirty cables or a weak ground. If it kicks in full strength then it could be your solenoid or ignition switch. Is any other electrical item working funny. Does your blower fan surge at all during normal driving? Does your dash lights ever flicker? What about your gages? Do they work correctly?
If any of these problems occur you may have a bad cab to block ground. This can cause starting problems in its worst case form. Finally, the power source to the igniytion switch may be corroded. This wire bolts in on the hot side of the siolenoid and is prone to corroding. Leaver the vehicle in the ignition run position and wiggle the wires. You'll hear the relays jumping in and out if the connection is weak.
Good Luck,
KingFisher
Thread Starter
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New User
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
From: Chester Springs, PA
Thanks!
I am sorry for the brief description. I was in a hurry when I was writing. Thank you very much for the information. I am still learning the ropes with these trucks. They are the neatest trucks ever, I just need to get to understand the electrical system a little better. Thank you very much for your help.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,613
Likes: 2
From: Gainesville, FL
79,
I have been owning and repairing these 73-79s for over twenty years now.
I still don't understand the electrical systems.
I wish someone could explain how the damm blinkers work?
However, if you can keep the steering columns together and the rear axles seals from leaking, they seem to run on forever. Oh yeah, you also have to worry about the cooling system and the ignition system and don't forget the oil pressure.
You get the idea,
KingFisher
I have been owning and repairing these 73-79s for over twenty years now.
I still don't understand the electrical systems.
I wish someone could explain how the damm blinkers work?
However, if you can keep the steering columns together and the rear axles seals from leaking, they seem to run on forever. Oh yeah, you also have to worry about the cooling system and the ignition system and don't forget the oil pressure.
You get the idea,
KingFisher
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,613
Likes: 2
From: Gainesville, FL
Trending Topics
New User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
From: Southern MN
400 starting problem
I had the same problem with my 78 f150. I also have a 400 which is currently on the rebuild stand. I found a bad solenoid switch (the black cylinder on the fender with the battery wires running to it) and the starter was loose. The starter grounds through the mounting system and when it came loose dirt and oil built up in back causing a bad connection. Replaced the solenoid and removed and cleaned the starter mount. Reinstalled the starter and all was well. No one builds a better truck than Ford....
Hope this helps.......
Navarre
Hope this helps.......
Navarre
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Thread Starter
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New User
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
From: Chester Springs, PA
Thanks
Thanks alot Navarre. I really appreciate everyones help. This is a great web site and Ford trucks are great trucks. I will never drive any other truck other than the 70's Ford trucks. They are alot of fun. <!-- / message -->