occassionally when i start my 2000 f150, the engine will start up and then suddenly die. if i hold down the gas for about 2 minutes(sometimes longer if temp is cold outside) it will idle normally and not die. i thought my fuel filter was maybe dirty so i replaced that brand new. i also ran some fuel injector cleaner and replaced the battery.since then i have not had any problems. has anybody else experienced the same type of problem?? can anyone locate exactly what the problem is?

 

I've had similar issues with my 2000. Normally I notice it when the fuel tank is lower. I'm guessing I need to change out the filter, but I would also look into the IAC and check your vacuum hoses for cracks/leaks....

 

Try this: Turn ignition key to on,count to 10,then start. Try this for several starts. If this works every time,I would guess you're losing pressure or flow in your fuel system Since this occurred before you changed the fuel filter and still is occurring I would hazard a guess that the fuel injection is problematic. You could service the system(buy the service kit----- a can of fuel/fuel cleaner and a adapter/hose unit).
Just my $.02.

 

i did not replace the battery at the same time i did the other maintenance. since i put a new battery, it has not even once had this crappy startup one time. any other ideas?? ive read in forums about IAC, what exactly is this and where is it located

 

Yeah, your IAC is sticking, it's behind the TB elbow on the 2000

That spring sticks in there when your TB and elbow gets dirty -

 

i know nothing about modern fuel injection engines . where is the TB elbow...

 

That red line plugs into the TB elbow - the TB is in front of the elbow and the IAC is behind the elbow back by the firewall (u can barely see the IAC in this pic)



Go here for a better desciption..

http://www.fordf150.net/howto/throttlebodyclean.php

 

Since it is "better" to replace with new then to clean, where's the best place to pick one up. I think Autozone has one made by Wells for $50...that sound about right?

 

do i just use carb cleaner to clean this?

 

Use very little carb cleaner and don't be surprised if the problem gets worse after you clean it. IACs don't take well to baths.