1988 Ford Mustang Won't Start

1988 FORD MUSTANG
64,652 MILES • V8 • 2WD • MANUAL
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88STANG5.0
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  • 3 POSTS
Good afternoon, I started the vehicle and it ran for about 10 seconds and then it died. So i replaced the fuel filter and the coil and still nothing. A couple days prior i changed the spark plugs, spark plug wires, oil and oil filter which i don't think this matters. I don't drive the vehicle very much and I never a problem before. I was going to change the fuel pump but i can hear the pump pressuring up and it also smells flooded when i tried to start vehicle so i don't believe its that. Also was going to change the distributor but i will wait for futher instructions befor i do anything. Thanks and i hope to hear from you soon.
Apr 23, 2010 at 12:42 PM
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RACEFAN966
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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Ok first lets see if you have spark. Unplug a spark plug wire and either put an old spark plug in it and set it near the valve cover and see if there is spark or put a philips screw driver in the end and do the same. Let me know what you find and we will go from there.
Apr 24, 2010 at 8:01 PM
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88STANG5.0
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Good afternoon, I pulled the spark plug with the plug wire still attached and started the vehicle. I didn't see a spark in the spark plug. So know I will wait for futher instructions thanks. Hope to hear from you soon.
Apr 28, 2010 at 12:27 PM
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RACEFAN966
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Ok so you cranked it over and it still wouldn't start and you don't have spark. This is correct right? If so then I am thinking ignition module. But we need to do a couple of tests first ok. First off remove the coil wire from the distributor cap and put it near metal (like the valve cover) and crank it over is there spark? If so then check the cap and rotor, if no spark then I need you to run another test on the coil. You will need a test light and hook it up as shown in the pic below, now crank the engine over does the light come on or blink? If so then go to next test now use the second pic for the next tests. Now check the resistance as follows on the second pic with a digital multi meter let me know what the resistance is in the order of the pic ok.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/249564_Graphic_216.jpg

Coil resistance tests


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/249564_Graphic1_36.jpg

Apr 29, 2010 at 9:01 AM
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