96 intermittent starting problems - Page 2

JL2695 · #16 09-06-2006, 01:24 PM

It's me again and I've still got this problem. I replaced the IAC valve and the fuel pump, then I replaced the fuel pump and the eec relay and still got the same problem. Any ideas on what to try next????

rginter · #17 09-06-2006, 07:34 PM

Did you use a Ford fuel pump or an aftermarket fuel pump?

JL2695 · #18 09-07-2006, 09:21 AM

I used a fuel pump I bought at Autozone.
I've been searching other forums and have found a clue to this problem. It appears that when I turn the key, if the "Check Engine" light comes on the car will start but if I notice the light does not come on then it won't start. According to another forum this is an indication of a problem with the PCM (powertrain control module). I'm looking into this aspect now but am having trouble locating a PCM, it could also be a grounding problem or dirty connections with this module but I'm thinking it needs to be replaced.
Any thoughts out there?

way2old · #19 09-07-2006, 09:28 AM

A failing ignition switch may cause the same problem. It is the one located on the lower part of the steering column, not the key cylinder.

JL2695 · #20 09-07-2006, 09:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by way2old

A failing ignition switch may cause the same problem. It is the one located on the lower part of the steering column, not the key cylinder.

I'd love to think that is the problem but the car cranks normally it just won't start up. When this happens, if I open the air filter assembly and spray some starter fluid in towards the engine then it will start up, so it appears that a signal is not getting to the fuel pump or for some other reason fuel is not getting where it needs to be initially to start up. Once started it runs normally. Do you still think it could be the ignition switch??

way2old · #21 09-07-2006, 12:39 PM

The only way to be sure is to test to see if the fuel pump has power when the ignition is turned to the run position. But, as you know, if it does not act up it can't be found easily. The ignition switch can cause the problem you describe if it is out of adjustment or starting to lose contacts inside the switch. It is just a process of testing items when it will not start.

rginter · #22 09-07-2006, 06:04 PM

I had a 96 4.0 that wouldn't start when it was warm. Hot or cold it started fine. I tested the fuel pressure. It was within specs. Took it to a shop. They were stumped. Common sense told me the fuel supply was the problem, so I replaced the fuel filter. No help. I was tired of messing with it so I bought a new fuel pump from Ford and replaced the old one. I could have gone with a cheaper aftermarket pump but I only wanted to pull the tank once. Anyway, that fixed the problem. It started fine after that. Every time.

DAYALALITO01 · #23 10-13-2006, 07:44 PM

Have You Change The Crank Position Sensor ?

rhandwor · #24 10-15-2006, 10:35 AM

They have a DTR sensor on the side of the transmission if the contacts are worn they won't start. Try putting your foot on the brake and put it in neutral if it starts right up this is your problem. As some vehicles are different age in the thread. A 1997 no start is usually a crankshaft position sensor. A bad crankshaft position sensor will also cause problems. Put an ohm meter on a disconnected one and it should go fron zero to 1 when cranking. If you have a distributor put a 12v test light on the coil negative it should blink when cranking. Otherwise auto zone or advanced check them for free.
I would advise a motorcraft echlin or standard module or pickup.

JL2695 · #25 10-16-2006, 09:14 AM

I finally found out what the problem was with my Explorer. It turned out to be the fuel pump relay or the eec relay. I replaced two relays earlier but as it turns out they were the wrong ones, not the fuel pump & eec relays like I thought. I found the right location of these relays and replaced them and the problem is gone.

way2old · #26 10-16-2006, 11:40 AM

Thanks for taking the time to post the fix. It may help someone else with their repair.

fordfan1000 · #27 01-25-2007, 06:30 AM

Change the fuel pump relay,mine had the exact same symptoms and I have not had a glitch for 6 months now.

Scooters Explorer · #28 02-07-2007, 08:44 AM

I had the same problem with my 94 explorer.....CarMax tried a bunch of different things, new oxygen sensor, new alternator. Than I found a great set of mechanics that figured out it was a bad or going bad fuel pump. Best way to check if this is the problem is to beat on it with a hammer. I know it sounds weird but that what they did.......the mechanic said that when a pump or a starter is starting to go bad it you give it a few good raps with a hammer or tire iron then it will get it back in alignment and start working. Give it a try...it will get you home if you're stuck somewhere but still change the fuel pump so you don't have to crawl under the truck everytiime you wanna go home.

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