Engine cranks but will not start

Tiny
SARABELLUM
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD MUSTANG
  • 5.8L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 148,000 MILES
One day my car just stopped running. Nothing was wrong before, and all of a sudden when I turned the key the theft light would blink a theft code of 1:6, fuel pump not coming on and all fuses are good. I tried to hook up a reg scan tool but it says cannot communicate with vehicle, so I tried to use a Ford an device which came back with "unable to communicate with PCM". How do I have my PCM checked, or what wires should I check? I'm at a loss of what to do next because it seems like I've tried everything.
Friday, January 14th, 2022 AT 6:24 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

First, did you try a different key? Also, since you aren't getting communication with the PCM and the anti-theft light is on, I need you to check the EEC fuse in the under-hood fuse box.

See pic 1 below for fuse location. Note: When you check this fuse, also confirm there is power to and from it.

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

Let me know what you find. Also, if that fuse is good, confirm there is power to pin 16 at the data link connector. See pic 2.

Let me know what you find. Also, please confirm the engine size for me. The 5.8L wasn't offered this model year. If it's a v8, it should be a 4.6L.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Friday, January 14th, 2022 AT 10:41 PM
Tiny
SARABELLUM
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Okay, I'll go check that then get back with you. And it doesn't have the original motor in it. I believe it has a 351 Cleveland. I bought it like that, and I just never got a chance to get the engine code to find out for sure, but I can look for that too while I'm checking the fuse.
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Saturday, January 15th, 2022 AT 8:22 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Thanks for the update. Let me know what you find. Please keep in mind, if the engine has been changed (different type), I'm not going to be 100% sure of what changes have been made to the circuits. Things would have needed to be changed to make this work. However, I will try my best to help.

Take care of yourself and let me know what you find.

Joe
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Saturday, January 15th, 2022 AT 2:02 PM

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