I have a 1999 Ford F150 with about 98k miles on it. Lately it has been starting on and off, some days it starts just fine, others it takes about 5-10 minutes to get it to get it going. But now it has completely stopped. I added another quart of oil since it was low, replaced the air filter but with no luck. All fuses are good. Lights,stero, and dash all work fine it just wont start. I crank it for a little bit and it wont start but I can smell unburnt gas when I get out so I don't suspect its anything with the fuel pump. Any advice for me?

v6 4.2L SuperCab

 

Since you can smell fuel,I think your correct in assuming its not fuel pump related.I would suspect ignition system.Im not that unfamiliar with the 4.2,since Ive had two..one a 97,and the 07 I presently have....anyway back to the subject....I would check for spark next...pull a convienent plug wire,and put a spare plg in it...be sure the shell of the plug is grounded to the block,and have someone spin it over.If you see spark its likely not the problem..if you do,its gonna have something to do with the ignition timing...which could be any number/combination of sensors.....lastly,do you have a CEL,and if so what codes is it throwing?

 

This is most likely a bad IAC (Idle Air Control). Depress the gas pedal (don't pump) about 1/2 inch and try to start it. If it starts, your IAC is bad. VERY easy to change and the part costs about $125 from the dealer. Some parts stores have them, but the quality can be a bit suspect.

 

Tried it. Didn't work still wont start just keeps cranking. But now I notice that when I turn the key the battery light flashes but that's the only light that flashes but the truck still cranks and wont start.