Should I install a battery and fuel pump before requesting a diagnosis?

Tiny
WILLANDNAZ
  • MEMBER
  • 1981 FORD E-SERIES VAN
  • V8
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 153,000 MILES
My wife and I recently purchased a 1981 Ford Econoline 150 van. We were told the only things that needed to be replaced were the battery, fuel pump, air filter, and fuel filter, but we suspect other parts may need to be repaired or replaced. Would a mechanic be better able to diagnose the van if it were able to run, or will he be able to diagnose it just as well before we install the battery and fuel pump?
Wednesday, May 21st, 2014 AT 7:40 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
TY ANDERSON
  • MECHANIC
  • 719 POSTS
Are you trying to find out if it really needs a fuel pump, battery, fuel filter etc?
If the engine is running what would you need diagnosed on the vehicle?
The reason I'm asking questions is to find out what your trying to accomplish and that I might be able to assist you or provide options.
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Wednesday, May 21st, 2014 AT 9:16 PM
Tiny
WILLANDNAZ
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Sorry if my question was a little confusing. I would like to determine all the problems the vehicle has. I do not doubt that it needs the parts the previous owners said it does. The reason why I am asking this instead of just replacing the parts and then having someone look at it is because if I have to install the battery and fuel pump first, then I will have to do that in a few months. But if a mechanic can fully inspect the van without it running, then I could afford to call a mechanic now.
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Wednesday, May 21st, 2014 AT 9:35 PM
Tiny
TY ANDERSON
  • MECHANIC
  • 719 POSTS
Ok. Thank you for that.
Without the engine running a reputable mechanic can find just visual problem. With the engine in running condition the inspection would most likely yield better results.
If it were my vehicle I would want to know if the vehicle is in a good operational condition. I wouldn't want to put a lot of money into something that isn't going to work without major repairs. So find out if the van runs first before putting too much money into it.
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Wednesday, May 21st, 2014 AT 9:51 PM

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