Long crank time/misfire

Tiny
YAMA42
  • MEMBER
  • 1990 FORD F-150
  • 4.9L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 182,000 MILES
It will start but the engine has a long crank time. Once I start it, I get what feels like a multiple misfire and a loss of power going down the road. The misfire started after I found the spark plug on number four coming completely out of the manifold while still connected to the wire. I have been told it is fuel, but I have got a new fuel filter and I had the injectors cleaned. The pump usually works or it does not. This is all after replacing the plugs, plug wires, cap and rotor. Any ideas as to what's wrong?
Tuesday, October 4th, 2016 AT 4:17 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Scan for codes and check fuel pressur with a gauge auto parts rent it. also check for a vacuum leak. here is article.
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator
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Wednesday, October 5th, 2016 AT 6:55 AM
Tiny
RENEE L
  • ADMIN
  • 1,260 POSTS
Hi YAMA42,

If you decide you would like to conduct the scan yourself here is a link to an article that features written step by step instructions and pictures explaining how to do the scan yourself, also I have included a link to our YouTube channel with a how to video on code scanning.

This is applicable even if your check engine light is not on.

Most scanners are inexpensive to purchase, you can purchase one online from sites like Amazon.com

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

https://youtu.be/YV3TRZwer8k

Once you have the codes please get back to us so that we can further assist you. We are always happy to help.

Thank you for visiting 2CarPros.com.

Kindest regards,

Renee
Admin
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Wednesday, October 5th, 2016 AT 3:07 PM
Tiny
YAMA42
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Found a couple cracked vacuum lines, replaced them and it helped, but was not a cure. Fuel pressure checked out fine. There is still a misfire and long start, but I have got some power back. Might have to go to a shop for diagnostics.
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Wednesday, October 5th, 2016 AT 5:27 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
I have heard of those trucks having a problem with the switching valve if you have more than one tank, I think it sucks air into the injection system. The valve is located under the bed on the drivers side I believe.

Please let us know what you find so it will help others.

Best, Ken
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Monday, October 10th, 2016 AT 5:16 PM
Tiny
YAMA42
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
It does have dual tanks. That could explain it sounding like it is starving for fuel, know a way of testing it? I do not want to have to keep throwing parts at it if I do not have to.
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Monday, October 10th, 2016 AT 7:25 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
It was very difficult to test, I just remember it from back in the day when my buddy at Ford told me about it.
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Monday, October 10th, 2016 AT 10:00 PM
Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
I have this and will send pictures on how to do this. Read both pages first though.
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Tuesday, October 11th, 2016 AT 5:26 AM

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