Will crank but will not start?

2001 FORD F-150
160,000 MILES • 4.2L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KALANIR
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  • 4 POSTS
I was driving the other day and it started to bog down, so I let off the gas, pressed it again RPMs went up a little then the RPMs went crazy and stalled out. Now it won’t start but it cranks.
I’ve checked the relays/fuses.
Fuel pump is turning on/ fuel pressure good.
Battery.
Spark plugs/cord/ distribution box.
Apr 2, 2023 at 8:18 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

In most cases, a crank no start condition is the result of either a fuel loss or ignition spark loss issue.

Do me a favor. See if it will start with starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it is fuel related. If there is no change, we need to check for an ignition spark at the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Apr 2, 2023 at 2:52 PM
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KALANIR
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  • 4 POSTS
I replaced the crank shaft sensor, nothing.
But I sprayed some starter fluid in n there, cranked right up.
Apr 3, 2023 at 2:06 AM
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KALANIR
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  • 4 POSTS
It stays on too and turn the key off and on drove it down the block 2 times.
Apr 3, 2023 at 2:07 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Did you use the starting fluid after the new CKP sensor was installed or did you try it prior? I ask because if you did, then I don't know if the CKP was bad prior.

However, if it started with starting fluid, that tells me there is a fuel-related issue. At this time, is it operating normally?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
Apr 3, 2023 at 1:30 PM
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KALANIR
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It is working normally and I tried to crank it two separate time before I used starter fluid.
Apr 3, 2023 at 11:13 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

That is good news. Thanks for the update.

Please feel free to return anytime in the future if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe
Apr 4, 2023 at 12:15 PM
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