351 doesn't like cold starts

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Nov 19, 2006 | 01:08 PM

AC-MAN

Thread Starter

Cross-Country

Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 62

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351 doesn't like cold starts

I have a 1996 F250 4x4 351 auto. w/120,000mi. Last winter when temps would get to around 10 deg. overnite the truck would not start in the morning. It would start-run for a second then die. It would keep repeating this run-die run-die unless i would hold the gas to keep it running. The gas pedal is also a bit stiff to push the first time after it has sat overnite when cold, pumping the pedal to loosen it up does not help starting either. Sometimes it only takes a few seconds of running to idle normally, other times a few minutes. This year it is starting to do the same thing at 30-40 deg. New air filter, cap, rotor, plugs and wires last winter did not help. New fuel filter yesterday did not help. Does not matter which fuel tank I am using. I am thinking its probably a sensor but check engine light does not come on.

Thanks, Jordan

Nov 28, 2006 | 08:55 PM

Old_Paint

Elder User

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 805

Likes: 3

It sound like the IAC (Idle Air Control) may be sticking closed, then freeing up after starting the engine a few times. Try cleaning the IAC to see if that helps.

Nov 28, 2006 | 09:06 PM

holysmokes

New User

Joined: Nov 2006

Posts: 17

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sounds like a weal fuel pump

fuel injected vehicles shouldnt act starved for fuel

it takes approximately 60 lbs of fuel pressure for a cold start, then the pressure decreases to around 30

you have a fuel starvation problem, 200,000kms[120,000miles] is about when pumps cause grief

Last edited by holysmokes; Nov 28, 2006 at 09:40 PM.

Nov 28, 2006 | 09:25 PM

McLeod

Cargo Master

Joined: Mar 2003

Posts: 2,333

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You need to use a block heater or even better, an inline tank heater and/or park in a garage at night.

Installing a heater in mine increased my morning commute gas milage from less than 4mpg to almost 7mpg (a 2 mile drive at near 0 temperatures).
Regards
Ken