periodic no start
 

I think the gear shift lever is loose and so I get a no start every day or two.
I remembered seeing somewhere here that there was a way to tighten up the grearshift lever to fix this problem.

I did a search to no avail.

thanks for any help.

Search for "torx screws" or sloppy shifter

If that's not the case, check the Starter Motor Solenoid Relay Switch on the passenger front quarter panel. I had the same problem, replaced the relay switch and problem solved.

Your 2003 will have the relay in the fuse box, the solenoid is on the starter.
I just replaced my starter two weeks ago, the + post on the solenoid was about burned off.
The truck started having intermittent warm start issuess, but would always start eventually, and always from cold.
When I tried to remove the battery cable from the solenoid, the post came off in my hand.
It was a matter of time till I was stranded.

LA

Thanks for the input.
I checked all torx and they are tight from me doing this thing a few years ago.
I went ahead and replaced the bushings on the shaft and still no luck.
Gear lever is fairly tight now.
Was wondering about the solenoid. I have an october 2002 built truck. registered as a 2003.

somewhere in between ill find it.

Fraalan,
The solenoid on your truck is located on the starter.
There are two wires on the solenoid, one large one from the battery and one small one.
The small one, I believe is yellow, this is the signal wire from the relay in the fuse box.
If you trace this wire it runs up to a connector on the passenger side above the inner fender. Mine was tucked under the fender.
The next time it refuses to start, you can confirm it is the solenoid, just disconnect this wire and touch the side connected to the solenoid to the (+) side of the battery.
If the starter works, your problem is likely at either the relay or the neutral position switch on the transmission.
When my starter was working, it would pass this test, you have to do it when it is not working.
When you decide it is the solenoid, I will walk you through replacing the standard starter with a high torque starter.
Good Luck

LA
2002, F250 SD, CC, 7.3, 4x4, LB