Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Motor wont turn over sometimes, just cranks and cranks.... What's the deal??

[C. Harlan]

Its sort of annoying, and umbarrassing too... it happens sometimes, and only after I changed the fuel filter last week. . While changing it, I unplugged a wiring harness that I guess is the TPS, is pretty decent sized with 3 wires, though dont quote me on that... It has never done this, and I dont know what the deal is... luckily (Knock on wood) I have enough battery juice to crank the SOB over... Otherwise, I may have to get a jump from a phord or a chebby... . No bueno (No good)... . hehe, anyways, please let me know what the deal is,





-Chris-

 

[Darel]

You unplugged your fuel shutoff solenoid. Plug it back in and you'll be OK. If you already have plugged it back in, either the solenoid or, more likely, the relay is going bad. Next time it won't start, turn the key to the on position and try pushing it up by hand. That will get the truck started. The relay is on the firewall right behind the engine towards the drivers' side, there are two and again the one on the driver's side is the one you want to replace. They're $6 at Radio Shack. If that doesn't do it you'll need a new solenoid.

Darel

 

[TxDieselKid]

I think he unpluged it, looking for somewhere to plug in that Edge EZ.



Andrew

 

[shendren]

might check the starter contacts as well. they are probably not the problem but they do need to be upgraded.

 

[illflem]

You really need to put a fuel pressure gauge on it to it to see what's happening. It could be any number of things. If you haven't replaced your rubber fuel hoses now might be a good time. Could also be the lift pump or overflow valve. The way you describe it it doesn't sound like the shutdown system, sounds more like you're sucking air somewhere, it can do it without leaking fuel. Could even be a damaged filter gasket.

 

[C. Harlan]

I think a fuel pressure gauge is on the agenda for this coming week... Just looking for a place to plug in that Edge box ... . hehe, anyways, I think it is the relay, because everytime now when it does not start, I go out and bang on the relay, crank it again, and she fires right up... I lubed up the gaskets when I changed the filter the other day... I will keep looking, but definitely want a fuel pressure gauge... BTW, where do you mount the sending unit for a fuel PSI gauge?? Just curious...



-Chris-