1989 Ford F250 engine cranks but wont start

1989 FORD F-250
126,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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10STROKIN
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my 460 died on me on the way to work today. it cranks over, but wont fire at all. i put my code scanner on it and it wont read anything at all. the light just stays on, initially you hear a few relays click but thats it. code reader manual says to refer to factory manual if codes wont read. any suggestions? thanks, matt
Jun 29, 2008 at 7:14 PM
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MERLIN2021
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Check the ecm ground near the battery.
Jun 29, 2008 at 7:49 PM
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10STROKIN
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what does it look like?
Jun 29, 2008 at 7:55 PM
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MERLIN2021
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It's a wire with an eyelet and it attaches to a screw....usually it's black with a green stripe, but can be all black. Reove the wire and clean both the eyelet and the car surface until they shine!
Jun 29, 2008 at 8:06 PM
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10STROKIN
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i cleaned all the ground wires i could find. nothing yet. i replaced the cap and rotor not too long ago, and i notice the contacts inside look very burned like a weak ignition maybe?
Jun 29, 2008 at 8:39 PM
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MERLIN2021
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Could be then ignition module...or a bad coil. If your check engine light is always on, your sto/light is shorted to gound, Ford TFI modules(ignition) on the side of the distributor, are weak links, take it out and have it tested at parts store. Check the 60 pin connector at the ECA for corrosion and bent or pushed out pins.
Jun 29, 2008 at 9:56 PM
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10STROKIN
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ok, i will try that next. b y the 60 pin connector at the eca, i assume you mean the connector to the computer inside the drivers side kick panel, correct? i didnt know the parts store could test the tfi module? thanks again!
Jun 30, 2008 at 5:07 AM
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MERLIN2021
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ECA is under a shield at the air filter brackett. Mitchel is showing 2 locations, it also says under left kick panel...The ECA(Electronic control assy) Is the vehicle's computer..what we now call a PCM.
Jun 30, 2008 at 7:08 AM
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10STROKIN
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its under the kick panel. should i disconnect the battery before taking it off?
Jun 30, 2008 at 4:21 PM
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MERLIN2021
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Wouldn't hurt to pull the negative cable.
Jun 30, 2008 at 5:04 PM
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10STROKIN
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ok, everything was taken off and cleaned real good. i still get nothing at all with the code scanner.
Jun 30, 2008 at 6:53 PM
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MERLIN2021
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Test power to ECA...


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/62217_ECA_Testa_1.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/62217_ECAConnector_1.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/62217_TFI_1.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/62217_TFI_MOD_Resistance_1.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/62217_TFIa_1.jpg

Also check any fuse for ECA or ECU and in the power distribution box under the hood any relay marked to power the ECA or ECU, check the blue fusible link on the starter solinoid.
Jun 30, 2008 at 8:34 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.