2003 Ford F-250 engine shutting on and off

MARIGOLDS

MEMBER
2003 FORD F-250

2003 Ford F250 V8 Four Wheel Drive Automatic

when I turn the engine on, it make run a few seconds and then shut off and then turn its self back on, then shut off and then on etc. There is a clicking sound maybe from the gauges going on and off. I'v e had it in the Ford garage and they can't find anything. What could it be? Thanks

3 Replies

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,394 POSTS

Let's make sure i've got this straight. You start the truck and then it dies. Does the engine come to a complete stop and then restarts all by itself? Or, does the motor "surge" up and down? Please describe as best you can. The explaination is important.

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Monday, April 6th, 2009 AT 6:53 PM

MARIGOLDS

MEMBER
2 POSTS

With the key turned on, the truck runs for a few seconds and then dies. The gauges go haywire and there is a clicking noise and then the engine comes back on. I guess you could call it surging. The speedometer doesn't work after this. After it surges 5 or 6 times then it runs ok.

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Monday, April 6th, 2009 AT 8:57 PM

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,394 POSTS

If it wasn't for the speedo problem being involved here, I'd say to change the crankshaft position sensor (CPS). But, that should have nothing to do with the speedo. On the back of the inst. cluster are 2 relays. One is called the "battery saver" and the other is for the interior lights. It's one of these you hear clicking and I suspect the bat. saver is the culprit. These 2 relays should be interchangable. Switch them around and see what happens. let me know. I've also attached a inst. panel diagram. Because of space limitations, it mat not come through very well. If not, give me your email address and I'll send it as a PDF.