1997 Ford Thunderbird No spark once in a while

1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD
140,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TIM LEENHOUTS
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My daughter has my old Tbird that I gave her when I got my new Mustang.
The car is in great shape and runs like a champ, usually.
About 6 weeks ago she called me at 6AM to say the car would not start. After sitting a while, it started right up. It did this about three times in a month. I figured it was the fuel pump. When it happened again, I went over to see. Fuel pump works fine.
I checked the computer, no codes were stored, the check engine light does not come on. I found that there was no spark. Had it towed to the dealer. When they got it off the truck, it would not start. In the morning when the mechanic went to work on it, it started right up. They kept it a week and it started every time they tried. They put a coil in it as a "guess".
We took the car home and it was fine for two weeks and the same thing happened again. Had it towed, same thing. It would not start for me when I tried it at the dealer. The mechanic came right out and it started right up. They can't figure it out, nor can I.
It usually happens first thing in the morning when the car is cold. If it starts the first time in the morning and gets fully warmed up, it will run fine all day long.
I am leaning toward the crankshaft position sensor being right on the edge of its magnetic range to sense. I am not $500 sure, though.
Has anyone had this problem or know what to do?
May 19, 2008 at 11:32 AM
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.
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