Will not start

Hi,

If you have spark and fuel, it should run. Since the spark is obvious, we need to focus on the fuel system. I realize there is fuel, but is it within the manufacturer's specifications? Have you checked the pressure?

Here is a link that shows how if you haven't:

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

Here are the manufacturer's specs:

1989 Ford Truck F 250 4WD Pickup V8-351 5.8L
Pressure, Vacuum and Temperature
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Fuel Pressure Specifications Pressure, Vacuum and Temperature
PRESSURE, VACUUM AND TEMPERATURE

Key On Engine Off 35 - 45 psi
Key On Engine Running 30 - 40 psi

Next, have you checked for diagnostic trouble codes? This truck has an OBD1 system. You don't need a scan tool to retrieve codes. Here is a link that explains how to get them. Do this if you haven't already and let me know what codes are found.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ford-lincoln-mercury-obd1-1995-and-earlier-diagnostic-trouble-code-definition-and-retrieval

If there are no codes and the fuel pressure is within spec, see if it starts for a couple of seconds using starting fluid and then stalls. If it does, then we need to move to the fuel injectors.

Since you said it is getting fuel, then it shouldn't be related to the inertia switch. The inertial switch shuts fuel off in the event of an accident and can be reset. On F-series, the Inertia Switch is located at the far left part of the toe-board, near the parking brake assembly.

I hope something here helps. Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

The codes are for two different components. Code 21 is the engine coolant temp sensor and 24 is the air charge temperature. See pic 1 for locations.

Check to make sure they are connected. If they are, crank the engine a couple of times and then pull a spark plug to see if it is wet with fuel.

If the ECT is indicating an extreme temp (for example -40°F) the computer will dump fuel to make it run which won't work if it isn't that cold.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Hi,

Okay, either it is flooded or there is no spark. I'm going to guess it is no spark. Here is a link that shows how to check for spark:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Do that and let me know the results. I have a feeling the TFI module is bad or the coil itself is bad. I attached a pic below of the TFI location. It's on the distributor.

Let me know.

Joe