Will not stay running?

1989 FORD F-250
186,359 MILES
Avatar
MOUSE357
  • MEMBER
  • 58 POSTS
Crank starts and shuts off, if spray cleaner in throttle body it will run longer then shut off. Have ran all kinds of tests. Replaced front tank fuel pump. It started back in winter. If I put gas in and say it was ½ to ¾ full. Then before long you would hear a high pitch winning or humming wasn't long and it wouldn't start. Several times the starter has stayed engaged. It's to the point now starter is taost. And now I don't hear both my relay's activating like they used to. The EEC you can barely hear it engage but it passed all the test I was advised to do with a multimeter. I also ran test on my fuel pump relay an it as well passed all the tests. I ran wires directly from battery to high pressure pump on frame under driver's side. It ran strong. Just like I ran jumper wires to the OBD1 pins manually activated all 3 fuel pumps. And the back tank is the that Original 1 that started this issue.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Jun 8, 2024 at 2:30 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,238 POSTS
Does this truck have dual tanks? I have seen the fuel tank switching valve go bad and cause this problem. Also, I would load test the battery because if it is weak, it will cause the starter to stay engaged, this guide can help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Here is the location of the valve and what it looks like.

On LH Side Of Frame Member Behind Cab

Note: OE does not provide an image location of the fuel tank selector valve for the gasoline models.

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.
Jun 10, 2024 at 3:51 AM
Avatar
MOUSE357
  • MEMBER
  • 58 POSTS
Okay, I thank you for your time. But now I've got a new problem. Now it won't start at all. I've replaced the starter. I've changed the relays in and out (not new ones but they still work). I've sprayed carb cleaner in the throttle body and nothing. Just cranks doesn't try to start. No spitting or sputtering. When before I found out the starter was fried it would at least run for a few seconds then shut off. You can hear the pumps fire and run like jet engines trying to take off. And nothing just cranks. So even if it was out of gas the carb cleaner should at least make it do something...
And now there's nothing I'm at a complete loss here. Like what happened here? If you could please help me thank you for your time.
Jun 11, 2024 at 8:14 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,238 POSTS
It sounds like the engine lost spark, to be sure let's go over this video to confirm. Also, remove the distributor cap to see if the rotor turns when cranking the engine over.

https://youtu.be/baq_aEWNQ0Y?si=A4mWYtIpLp3IeeFO

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
Jun 12, 2024 at 4:23 AM
Avatar
MOUSE357
  • MEMBER
  • 58 POSTS
I haven't had a chance to check the distributor yet. But I know for sure the coil is getting major fire. Every time the ignition hit the coil sparked. I will try to send you a video so you can listen in a little while.
Jun 12, 2024 at 5:26 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,238 POSTS
Sounds good, does the engine sound normal when it is cranking over?
Jun 12, 2024 at 6:55 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.