1993 Ford E-Series Van Weird no start - then start

BLAZE543

MEMBER
1993 FORD E-SERIES VAN
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
138,000 MILES

I went out to my van after work this evening and it cranked, but wouldn't start. I pumped the gas a few times (not too much) and could smell fuel. I checked the fuses and saw that 1 fuse for: air bag module, DRL module, aux. Battery relay, starting system, B/U lamps, & turn lamps: was not the correct "AMP" fuse. Someone had put a 30 amp fuse where a 15 amp should be. So I changed it & the van started up. Would this have anything to do with my starting problem or is it just coincedence?

I appreciate any help.

P.S. - I should note that I think I might have a blown head gasket. I just bought the van and noticed the coolant is a muddy brown color and that it was extremely low on oil when I brought it home.

1 Reply

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,395 POSTS

I have to believe the starting of the van after changing the fuse was just coincedence. Fuse size has nothing to do with voltage flow but can cause serious wiring damage or fire if the oversize fused circuit is for some reason is shorted. First thought is, when was the van last tuned up. A simple tune up may be a cheap solution to your starting problems. Also, and importantly, is your description of the engine oil. Oil that looks like a "chocolate malt" is indicitive of coolant leaking into the engine oil. Antifreeze in oil drastically reduces the lubricating ability of oil. If this be the case, the coolant in the oil will act like sandpaper on the engine bearings. I would have this checked out ASAP. Hope this helps.