1983 Ford F-150 Please help. Truck is having problems starti

EK49TEN

MEMBER
1983 FORD F-150

Engine Mechanical problem
1983 Ford F150 Engine Size unknown Two Wheel Drive Automatic 125000 miles

Hey guys.

1983 Ford F150.

First off sorry If I can't be real detailed but remember that I just bought this truck yesterday. I'm still testing and troubleshooting and will update ASAP. I just had to get to work.

Basically, I bought the truck yesterday from a dealership. It's in fairly good condition for it's age. I just needed something to haul my bike around in. It looks like it has been taken care of just old. It has no major problems that I can see yet. What's going on is it has troubles starting after it's been ran for a bit. I drove it off the lot down the street to work to keep it there over night because I've had my bike and can't drive two things obviously. When I first start it I have to pump it 2 or 3 times real quick and it starts right up with no problems at all. Actually does very well. I noticed after driving it about 5 miles yesterday that it was getting just a little hot but not overheating at all. This may not have anything to do with it but just documenting everything.

I shut the truck off for about 5 minutes and when I went to start it back up to go back to work it had trouble starting but DID start. Trouble enough to scare me for a sec. I left it at work overnight and today I went to pick it up to go get some stuff for a basic tune up (spark plugs, oil change, the works.). It started right up with no problem and I took off. I stopped at QT to get a drink. When I came out to leave the truck would not start. It turns over and sounds fine turning over but just won't kick. Almost like it's not getting fuel or flooded. I let it sit for 20 min (thinking somehow it's flooded) but that didn't help. Just keeps turning over. Not once did it act like it was about to start. Just turning over. I'm going to go at lunch and try again. I had to get to work.

I'm thinking it's going to start because it usually does right away after sitting is what I'm seeing. I'll let you know about 6 p.M. CST. I just need some guidence on what it may/could be so I know what to look for. I have basic auto knowledge but am not a pro especially when it comes to carbs.

2 Replies

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

Start with the basics, and work your way up, Last tune up was? Wires plugs ALL filters? If all that is ok, check for a stuck EGR, then test fuel pump pressure, If it won't restart, determine what's missing, the engine needs three things to run, Spark at all plugs, gas to all cylinders, and compression in all cylinders, tho an engine may run lacking one in one cylinder, it won't run very well!