1996 Ford Thunderbird Car Will Not Start

BCCOLUM

MEMBER
1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
250,000 MILES

Hi, I have had the above car since it was new. Recently it has had less and less power. On the highway at the end it would only do 50. When I came out it started, backed up then died and wouldn't start. I got it home, suspected fuel pump. I replaced the filter, no go, then the fuel pump. It started then, but ran weakly, and now it won't start again. No check engine light or trouble codes. When I spray ether in the throttle it starts right up, so I'm getting spark. I replaced the pressure regulator too, that didn't work. I suspected clogged cats but it starts right up strong with starting fluid. I can hear the pump priming when I turn the key to start. Any ideas? I'm stumped and frustrated.

3 Replies

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

You still have some type of fuel problem. You need to first use a fuel pressure gauge to stop the guesswork. If you confirm lower that spec fuel pressure, then you need to verify solid power and ground signals to the pump.

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Monday, October 4th, 2010 AT 7:42 AM

BCCOLUM

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I have no access to a fuel gauge but by pushing the fuel pressure relief valve I can see it's not where it needs to be still. It almost starts but not quite. I know I have gas. I live in an apt. Complex and you're not supposed to do big work on a car like dropping the fuel tank but I have twice while the main office is closed. It's an all weekend affair, jacking the car up and getting under the stands, dropping the tank and having it all back together before she gets in on Monday. How do I check power and ground signals to the pump? The Haynes manual says something vague about the Data Link Connector under the hood but I can't find it. I have a multimeter though. I can't afford to keep guessing but I also can't afford to have a pro fix it for me either. I do thank you for your advice.

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Monday, October 4th, 2010 AT 1:20 PM

WRENCHTECH