1997 F-150 4.6L with 80K miles. About 3 months ago pulled over to side of road and shut engine off, was running fine. When I went to start it up the engine seemed to start for only a couple of seconds and then died, ignition still in run position, turned to start position, the engine cranked over well but made no attempt to start was like it was not getting any spark. Turned ignition to off position then back to start and the engine started right away and ran well. No problems until yesterday, Pulled into parking lot and shut engine off, again it was running fine. Came back about 30 min. later and went to start it up. Engine again seemed to start 1-2 seconds then died. Remembering first episode I turned the ignition to the off position and then back to on and start position, engine did start but barely,was chugging and missing badly, pushing on gas pedal had no affect and it stalled out after only a bout 5 seconds. Turned ignition to off position and then to on and start position again and the engine started up fine and I drove home with out any problems, no missing no hesitation. Any ideas what would cause this type of problem?
Just so you know, about 6 months ago I had a check engine light come on computer reported a lean engine code, Dealership did an engine Vac cleaned the throttle body and replaced the MAF sensor which fixed the problem.
Thanks for your help.

 

Change the fuel filter. Test the fuel pressure with a gauge on the Schrader valve on the fuel rail.

 

Thanks I will check the fuel pressure, Dealer did replace the fuel filter when they did the engine VAC 6 months ago.

 

Good advice.

garan, what do you mean they did the "engine VAC" 6 months ago?

 

Probably a Motorvac intake cleaning. Same thing as a BG job.

 

Ok. Thanks glc.

Just looked weird "VAC" in all caps...

 

glc is right, cleaned throttle body and fuel injectors.
Any other ideas of what could cause this?

 

Check for codes again. As you've been told a coupe times already, check the fuel pressure.