David Schmidt 2
Member
2003 Sport Trac 2WD wtih 53,000 miles.
About 6 months ago truck began hard starting. Several cranks to start up whether it is cold or warm - same time. Vehicle always started up instantly before this.
I have cleaned engine compartment, cleaned K & N Filter, cleaned throttle body, cleaned IAC, (last time cleaning K & N Filter fixed the problem. This time it didn't help at all.)
I than put in 6 Denso Iridium Plugs, new set of 8mm Denso wires, new serpentine belt, changed oil and filter (synthetic and KN filter). I tried to replace the fuel filter (has 14,250 miles on it right now) but after several tools and 4 hours later I gave up. The front end with the metal clip would NOT come off. Two plastic clips at rear end - no problem - I had to give up. I pushed and pushed - would not release. Last time took about an hour - why is this so difficult - standard 5/16" tool right?
Anyways - the truck runs great - gets 18mph - best improvement came from new Wires oddly enough - took away the missing a beat at idle it had. I also tried the turning the key on and off for fuel pump pressure - no difference. I also have tried starting with gas pedal down to open the throttle body - no difference. No check engine lights. Strong battery and starter. Accelerates and performs great. Just doesn't start.
Assuming the fuel filter is not a problem what else can I do? Cleaning PCV valve help?
About 6 months ago truck began hard starting. Several cranks to start up whether it is cold or warm - same time. Vehicle always started up instantly before this.
I have cleaned engine compartment, cleaned K & N Filter, cleaned throttle body, cleaned IAC, (last time cleaning K & N Filter fixed the problem. This time it didn't help at all.)
I than put in 6 Denso Iridium Plugs, new set of 8mm Denso wires, new serpentine belt, changed oil and filter (synthetic and KN filter). I tried to replace the fuel filter (has 14,250 miles on it right now) but after several tools and 4 hours later I gave up. The front end with the metal clip would NOT come off. Two plastic clips at rear end - no problem - I had to give up. I pushed and pushed - would not release. Last time took about an hour - why is this so difficult - standard 5/16" tool right?
Anyways - the truck runs great - gets 18mph - best improvement came from new Wires oddly enough - took away the missing a beat at idle it had. I also tried the turning the key on and off for fuel pump pressure - no difference. I also have tried starting with gas pedal down to open the throttle body - no difference. No check engine lights. Strong battery and starter. Accelerates and performs great. Just doesn't start.
Assuming the fuel filter is not a problem what else can I do? Cleaning PCV valve help?