Starting issues

[mndeerslayer]

I'm having a problem with starting my Sport Trac that I hope someone can help with. During cold starts (more than 1 hr after last use) the engine turns over but will not start unless you use the accelerator. Then it requires about 10 seconds of maintained pressure (~1000rpm) to get the engine to idle correctly. After that, no prob. Doesn't even occur every time which adds to the confusion. My mechanic is baffled as well. We've added injector cleaner with no effect. I'm assuming this isn't a fuel filter or pump problem since it runs fine after starting. Possibly a leak somewhere in the fuel system but why doesn't it occur every time? No know recalls on the Ford website for this model either. Any ideas????

 

[Billy177]

if you have the 4.0 sohc it is probrally your intake manifold gasket leaking but firt try cleaning/new iac

 

[mndeerslayer]

Thanks Billy177. You'll have to excuse my ignorance since I have no idea what an IAC is. I'm assuming it's a sensor controlling air/fuel mixture. Is this correct and where is it located?

 

[Billy177]

the iac is teh idle air control valve it is located right underneath the cover that says sohc it is easy 2 bolts and a plug and there was a recall for the engine which may cause this it is the lower intake manifold gaskets

 

[mndeerslayer]

Awesome! Thanks again for the info. I checked the Ford website and they don't list any recalls for the 2002 but I'll be sure to lay it on the dealership if it's the manifold gasket problem.

 

[Rodeo Joe]

I was having a similar problem and a new IAC has taken care of the problem, knock on wood!

Joe

 

[dinas5pt0]

Sounds like our issue as well: On Friday I got hosed in that NY snow storm; my 30min trip took 3.5 hrs [massive stop and go traffic]. Truck has always been a strong starter. I never had to press or hold the gas pedal. During my 3.5 hr trip I stopped off for $20 gas. Sat AM I go to start and I needed to help the process by pressing the gas pedal slightly. After 30 or so seconds she was purring fine on her own. Sun I go to start and I have the same situation, only I had to hold the gas pedal for a few mins [3-4]. I drove off noticing the lower than usual rpms; I would go to neutral during necessary stops. After a mile of driving I pull into a local gas station and all was well. No hesitations at all. I managed to get a flat during my test ride. While fixing it I was stopping and starting the WARM engine with no issues. Wife goes to start it this AM and we're back to failed starts without my intervention.

I mention the $20 gas on Friday because I usually go to the same gas station ..not the one I needed to go to during my Fri expedition.

What do I do Folks?!!

 

[Rodeo Joe]

Could be bad gas. I'd run it down and fill it at the station you normally go to and see what happens.

Joe

 

[spta97]

I have a very similar problem and the Ford mechanic told me that it is the IAC. They wanted $225 to replace it so I said no. They still banged me with 1/2 a diagnostic fee for $46 - oh well. I'm going to clean mine tonight to see if that solves it, if not I'll get a new one myself.

I'll let you know how it worked out for me.

 

[dinas5pt0]

Thanks Guys!

I called my Ford Guys and had them do an "OASIS" on my VIN. They claim the 00M12 is not against my 98 AWD 5.0L. I told them my symptoms and they advised me of a defective IAC or DPFE. $280 a pop.

So, I went home and whipped out my DEI Valet 552T Security/Remote Starter Owner's Guide and put the Wife's X into TIMER MODE. The truck starts itself automagically every 3hrs for a 24min duration. I timed it perfect so my Wife left the house while it was during a run-cycle. She started the X at 5 this eve and said it started right up. Going to PepBoys to get some dry gas. Then I'll top off the tank [because Timer Mode = gas $$$ on a 5.0L]

Which of you folks is going to teach me how to change the run duration from 24 mins to 12? I'll have to get a 2nd job if I keep this up!!

 

[Billy177]

a 280 tab is nuts i got my iac from autozone.com for $65.99 and it is a direct replacement

 

[Tom G]

IAC

You're getting screwed on that IAC price. I had mine done under warranty in '01

0.2 hrs labor, and part price was $61.77

 

[dinas5pt0]

I think RodeoJoe might be on the money ...I didn't do TIMER MODE last night and the 5.0L started like a champ! I did drop a pint of dry gas and filled the tank to 3/4. It's going to be warm the next few days 30-40.
I will keep you posted. RodeoJoe, send me that piece of wood so I can knock on it.

__________________________________________
You Guy's Wrote:

-----a 280 tab is nuts i got my iac from autozone.com for $65.99 and it is a direct replacement
-----You're getting screwed on that IAC price. I had mine done under warranty in '01 0.2 hrs labor, and part price was $61.77

THIS IS WHY I'M A MEMBER OF SERIOUS EXPLORATIONS!