Did I really kill it?

SSETTLE

MEMBER
FORD F-150

I drive a 1994 F150 extended cab truck. About 12 weeks ago I ran out of gas (I have 2 fuel tanks and I still ran out of gas :( ). Since then the truck has been running terribly and getting less than 10 mpg. It didn't get a lot before that but it was better than 9mpg and my boyfriend is just ranting about how I ruined the truck.

Here's what's wrong besides the low mpg:

1) It runs REALLY rough.
2) It had a problem starting but we changed: spark plugs, rotor & cap, plug wires, and fuel filter. 2 of the plugs were really fouled.
3) It seems now that it needs a new driveshaft support bearing.
4) It bogs bad when going uphill

He says that maybe the fuel injectors are clogged or that I've ruined them. He hasn't checked those yet because he can get to the top 4 but the lower 4 are under the whatever and he may need a gasket.

Did I really kill it that bad by running out of gas?

Thanks,
Suzanne

1 Reply

BACKYARDMECHANIC

MECHANIC
337 POSTS

Dear Suzanne,
Unfortunately you probably did do some damage to the fuel system. Cars that have electric fuel pumps can be damaged just by running out of gas. As far as the injectors go you may have sucked up some dirt but nothing that a good fuel injector cleaner should fix. Most of the dirt is trapped by the filter. ( Thank God) Since you already changed the filter you have eliminated the easiest and cheapest part. Since that didn't correct the problem then you need to test the output of the fuel pump with a pressure tester to see if the pump is operating properly. If the pressure is not within specs the pump needs to be replaced. If the pressure is good and the filter was replaced then you may have clogged the injectors. Hope this helps and Good luck :)