I think you are close with the fuel pump thing. Locate the fuel pump inertia reset switch (I think its in the trunk). Next time it does not start reset it. It should start right back up. It could actually be the switch itself but probably is the pump.

BTW it sounds like old time vapor lock but that is not common on these pressurized newer fuel systems.

[This message has been edited by cphilip (edited 01-18-2000).]

 

jimb - have someone look at the "check" valve on the fuel line. This keeps the fuel from draining back and since the fuel is up at the top ready to go into the engine it will start up quick. If the fuel drains back out of the line you will have a problem starting.

 

OK, it's not my F-150, it's my Taurus 3.0L, but I'm getting really desperate.

Since early November, maybe eight times, the engine will not start normally. It turns over and wants to catch, but it will not fire up. At least four of these incidents, and maybe all of them, occurred right after I filled the gas tank and parked it for several hours.
The only way I can get it started is to press and hold the accelerator to the floor. It starts, but runs rough. If I let off the gas it stalls like its starved for fuel. I have to hold the accelerator down slightly and put it in gear to get it moving. After a few minutes and miles, it is fine again and will restart without problem; until the next fill-up. Yesterday, I filled the gas tank at 4:00 PM, drove home and parked. At 7:00 PM, it wouldn't start. Tried several times and gave up. This morning, it started with no problem!?!?!
I took it to the dealer last week and after three days and $70, "COULD NOT CONFIRM CUSTOMERS COMPLAINT". They said that holding the accelerator to the floor puts it in a "CLEAR FLOOD" mode which is contrary to the symptoms. I replaced the fuel filter after the problem started and also had it tuned-up last week. I think it may be fuel pump related since the pump is in the tank, but I don't want to spend the $425 to replace it without confirming.
I know I can count on someone here to help.
Thanks,
Jim

------------------
1999 XLT 4x2 SC - DOB: 7/19/99
Dark Toreador Red
4.6L, Auto, P255/70R-16 OWL, 3.55 LS, Rear Slider, Towing pkg, Pwr 40/60 Bench, RKE
Added:
Ford drop-in Bedliner
Ziebart rustproofing
Smittybilt nerfs - textured black #FN1730-S4T
Ford molded splash guards

1998 Windstar
1993 Taurus

 

He says this happens after he fills up the gas tank. I'm thinking it's got something to do with the vent/fuel vapor recovery system. Don't know enough about this system, but maybe you're over-filling the tank and liquid fuel is getting into this system and causing problems?

 

Thanks for the comments!
I did try pressing the inertia reset botton, but not during the problem.
I do tend to top-it-off after the first time gas pump clicks off, but I've done this since it was new.
I found several interesting hits searching the internet for fuel pump relay. Another possibility.
I also know that the first stop after I fill-up next time will be at the dealer.

Thanks again.

 

Maybe check and see if there is raw gas making it's way to the vapor canistor.

 

Jimb-

Did thay even use SBDS?

If the dealer cannot duplicate, let them keep it until they can. Try to duplicate the conditions (weather, etc...).

I just want to clear up some misconceptions.

The "clear flood" mode is correct.

The inertia switch is used in the event of crash or rollover. It is a mechanical switch, and disables the pump completely. This switch does not cycle.

I have seen cases where a load of groceries have fallen and tripped the switch. If you hear the pump running, the switch is closed.

The intank pumps have an integral check valve. If this were the concern, it would take longer to prime the fuel system. It should still start. On dual tank F-150's, this is what causes transfer to the other tank.

I have also seen a failed check valve cause raw fuel to saturate the vapor cannister on the dual tank trucks. This occured after the secondary tank was full. This did not cause a no start condition. It would start and die.

If the pump runs when you first cycle the key, the relay is closing, however, this may become intermittent.

In any case, a fuel pressure test is required for fuel related concerns. If the checkvalve is faulty (excessive leakdown) SBDS will verify that. The pump (and check valve) is serviced as a unit.

------------------
'98 4.6 5-sp F-150
We've come for your Tundra.

Where we started.
http://www.mcmullenargus.com/gallery...ge=1165&pub=12
After a facelift.
http://www.zing.com/picture/ff/e9/b5...d.jpg.orig.jpg
trixters-playground@excite.com
www.truckinweb.com




[This message has been edited by crash1 (edited 01-19-2000).]