93 Taurus Won't Start at operating temp

[papasmith]

I have a 93 Ford Taurus that will not start about half of the time after it has reached operating temperature. After it cools, it will start. Once started it will run fine. Any help will greatly appreciated as the cost of finding the problem would probably cost more than this otherwise reliable car would be worth.

[joe92k1500]

Sounds like it could be an ignition coil problem. To check for spark when it wont start, remove spark plug and hold against engine block. Have someone crank the engine, and check for spark. If no spark, replace the coil. Also change the plugs and wire while your at it.

[papasmith]

Tried that first thing. Put in another ignition coil. Didn't work. I can sometimes get the car to start by spraying starting fluid into the air intake.

[joe92k1500]

If it will start with starting fluid, then it has to be a fuel delivery problem. Replace the fuel pump fuses. When was the last time the fuel filter was changed? It could be partially clogged. Also, listen for the fuel pump. It should make a noise when the ignition is turned on. It may be going bad.

[papasmith]

Thanks for the input. I hadn't thought about the fuel filter. Interesting thing about the fuel pump is that sometimes I can't hear it come on when I am trying to start it. When the car is running, you can hear it running all the time. Isn't it supposed to cut off?

Thanks again.

[mikeboytourus]

Originally Posted by papasmith

I have a 93 Ford Taurus that will not start about half of the time after it has reached operating temperature. After it cools, it will start. Once started it will run fine. Any help will greatly appreciated as the cost of finding the problem would probably cost more than this otherwise reliable car would be worth.

sounds like you need a thermestat, not that hard to replace, or your fuse for your fan, you van might not be kicking on, my friend has a 93 tourus but 3.8, i dont know what yours is but they bought that car and was doing what you said and they had to send a lot of money and then they replaced that thermistat- i dont know how to spell it, but that was thier problem. later