Not starting unless I use starter fluid

2000 FORD WINDSTAR

120,000 MILES • 5.0L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

TORQUE2

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Let it sit for 6 months and when I tried to start it it would crank but not fire. I tried starter fluid and it would fire briefly and then just crank. I swapped the fuel pump and filter, cleaned the tank but the problem remains. I've got pressure at the rail, but don't know how much. I've tried two different pressure kits but none had an adapter that worked on this van's schraeder valve. Any thoughts?

Nov 1, 2020 at 8:32 AM

KASEKENNY

✓Experienced Mechanic
18,907 POSTS

I just want to make sure I am understanding what happened. You tried starting it after it sitting and then replaced all those parts and now it will only start with starting fluid?

If this is the case, then we do need to check pressure so that adapter is probably available from a parts store. You may need to just buy the adapter if it is not available in a kit. If you still can't find it let me know.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

If you have correct pressure but it still runs on starter fluid, then we need to crank it and check the pulse of the injectors and make sure they are firing. If not then that is where we need to go. Let's start here and take next steps based on the results.

Mar 24, 2021 at 11:23 AM

TORQUE2

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks for the feedback. It would only start on starter fluid before and after I replaced the parts. I only have a GM noid, so I will get one for Ford and test them. Stay tuned.

Mar 24, 2021 at 11:23 AM

KASEKENNY

✓Experienced Mechanic
18,907 POSTS

Sounds great. Let us know and I think that will answer a lot of questions that we have. If the injectors are firing but not spraying fuel then I would think it is just low pressure. However, I bet they are not firing. We will wait to hear back. Thanks

Mar 24, 2021 at 11:23 AM

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