I had intermittent trouble starting a 2000 manual transmission 4.2L F150 several months ago. Initially changed the safety switch on the clutch, but trouble kept happening on occasions. eventually after 3 trips to Ford, trouble showed up as low amperage. changed battery and had no problems for several months until today. Has anyone else had similar experience with intermittent starting? If so did you find the problem?
Thanks,
PR

 

Cheap battery, alternator going south, battery cables condition, starter getting old?
What does the truck do when it doesn't want to start?

 

The battery is the motorcraft put in by ford shop during last troublecheck 6 months ago. we checked the cables at the terminals this afternoon, looked good but we removed cables and cleaned anyway. possible alternator, but not sure how to check? When the truck doesnt start it does nothing at all, no click, nothing. Checked fuses and found nothing. Wondering how I could check alternator?

 

Most auto parts stores have alternator testers that will give you a reasonable condition of alternator.

 

Yeah, that was seven years ago.... Pretty sure it's been a moot point for a long time.

 

Yea Sorry about that - new to the site and didn't check the date. However; I am having the same problem. 2000.F150,4.2L, auto, 250K+, Fuel pressure running is 30psi, no start fuel pressure is 38psi. Spark tested 2 cylinders. On no start the engine turns over seemingly faster like a timing chain problem, but then it wouldn't start at all. Also, in the no start cycle the instrument guages do not respond to KOEO.