I have a 2004 F150 with the 5.4L V8 that was running perfect, then one day it sputtered, died and would not start again. It will briefly start one time after sitting for 24 hrs, run for 2 seconds then run like crap for another second “almost like limp mode” and die. It is throwing NO codes which is tricking me up here.
I checked the fuel pump and it is cycling on and have a stream of steady fuel flow where the fuel filter hooks in and is staying a strong stream as you try and crank the truck. I put a new fuel filter on as well. I also tried starting fluid in the intake and will not crank either so there goes my initial thought with it being fuel related.
It’s almost like it’s loosing spark somewhere immediately after starting one time but have no idea...the truck not throwing any codes is what is confusing me. Any thoughts?

I also checked all fuses/switches multiple times

 

Check the FPDM for corrosion in the connector and on the back side. Very common on this generation truck. Replace it with an updated part that comes with standoffs.

 

I will check that this evening but from my understanding is that the FPDM is what cycles the fuel pump so if the fuel pump is working than the FPDM would be working as well. Is that a correct assumption? Thank you for the help

 

Yes.

If the engine won't fire with starting fluid, either 1) it's flooded or 2) there's no spark.

Check for spark.

 

My thoughts as well. I will check the plugs tonight and post an information update tonight or in the morning. Thank you for the help.

 

If you have never changed the plugs, be aware of the sticking and breaking issue!

 

Roger that. I appreciate the heads up

 

Update: so I’m getting spark on all cylinders. I unhooked the battery to do a reset and I was able to get about a 15 second run time out of it then it dies. I pulled the fuel pump drive off and bypassed it with a jumper wire and it fired up and responded when I pushed the throttle but I only ran it about 20 seconds.
I thought we found the issue and put a new fuel pump drive module on and it will not start so that didn’t work. I unhooked the battery again for a reset and will try it again here in a little while.

what am I missing here guys?