01 EB: Trouble Starting

[Black Mammoth]

Hello everyone. I have an 01 EB X with about 72k miles. Recently (past 1 - 2k miles) the X has had trouble starting. My wife says it's pretty consistent now. The first time it tries to crank over but doesn't. She stops and tries a second time and it kicks over OK.

So I took the X to Advanced Auto Parts and they tested the battery and alternator. They said both were good. I would like to blame the battery since it's the OEM battery...so it's almost 5 years old. But they tested it and said it was fine. So I don't want to spend $$ on a new battery if I don't need it.

I'm starting to think it's the starter and the solenoid isn't engaging or something like that. I read that it could be the fuel regulator. How does one go about testing the pressure? On my old car (300ZX TT) I could put a gauge inline by the fuel filter. I can't really do that on the X. BTW, I replaced the fuel filter about 10k miles ago.

Any other ideas of what the problem could be? I rather not take it to the stealership to diagnose the problem.

Thanks

 

[dman726749]

battery cables could be going bad, it was a common problem on first gens, but other than what you have listed i would have no idea

 

[Runnin'OnEmpty]

BlackMammoth, the negative battery cable connects to a starter bolt, where it grounds to the engine. Loosen the bolt and remove the cable, then clean the bolt and cable terminal with a wire brush. Wipe a thin film of dielectric grease on the connector upon reassembly.

I've seen several Fords where this connection causes grounding problems.

 

[Eneurb]

I don't know what kind of tester they used on the battery, but sometimes electronic testers will pass a battery that an old fashioned load test will fail.

 

[Black Mammoth]

Thanks everyone. I will look in to it this weekend.