Not getting fuel? hard to start

[lastlapracer302]

Hey I have a 99 exploder with the 5.0 V8. Recently I have been having problems with the truck starting. Sometimes it starts up like a champ and sometimes it spins for a little while before it finally starts. However, when I am driving it runs GREAT so I am sort of confused with the situation. Also, when I am on a slight hill and a 1/4 tank of gas or less it will either die or not start back up until the truck is either level or I put 2-3 gallons of gas in the tank.

Could this be the fuel pump going out? or maybe the fuel filter clogged?

Long story short, it took alot of cranks to start this morning when my wife was leaving so I guess I need to get this taken care of.

Thanks,
Kevin

 

[unclemeat]

I would try the fuel filter first.

 

[marragtop]

When you have the no start situation, do you hear the fuel pump prime for a couple of seconds when you turn the key to the ON position?

 

[WoodsGuy]

I'm having the same problem with the starting issue. Starts great sometimes, other times no go. If I don't get it going initially, then immediately try again, it's a no go. Seems like a small wait time helps. I replaced the fuel filter but that hasn't helped.

 

[celly]

I just had the same problem a few weeks ago. I dumped a bottle of "Heet" in the tank and problem disappeared almost immediately. Moisture in the tank in my case.

It's worth spending the $2 to see if it solves your problem.

 

[scucci]

This TSB may explain the problem with the fuel level when parked on an incline.
TSB 99-22-3
FORD: 1997-2000 EXPLORER
MERCURY: 1997-2000 MOUNTAINEER
ISSUE OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
A no start condition when vehicle is parked on an
incline with the vehicle in a nose down position and
less than 1/4 tank of fuel may occur. This may be
caused by the fuel pump sender assembly not
reaching far enough into the front portion of the fuel
tank reservoir when the vehicle is parked in this
position. OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME
992203A Replace Fuel Pump 1.3 Hrs.
ACTION DEALER CODING
Replace fuel pump/sender assembly with a revised
fuel pump/sender assembly. Refer to the
appropriate model year Workshop Manual, Section 9H307 16
310-01, for removal and installation instructions.
OASIS CODES: 404000, 603300
PART NUMBER PART NAME
XL2Z-9H307-DA Fuel Pump/Sender Assembly
(1999-2000)
F7PZ-9H307-BA Fuel Pump/Sender Assembly
(1997-1998)