having problems??
Thread Starter
'88 f150
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Baxter, MN
having problems??
Hello i am new to this site and just recently came accross a 1988 Ford f150 351 auto single cab long box 4x4. And its got a long list of problems i need help with.
Firstly the truck will not start with ignition in any gear. I have to turn the key on and arc the solenoid witha screw driver. its not the ignition had it replaced, neutral safety switch maybe?
Secondly after it does start it makes a fairly loud knocking sound for a couple seconds then it gets quieter after that, sounds like my old buick before engine quit (crank bearings) but the buick was louder and constant. it also blows smoke from the back of the engine after a couple seconds of running and only for a couple minutes when its warming up then it gradually backs off.
These are only a few problems it has but i would like these resolved first.
Your feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
Ryan
Firstly the truck will not start with ignition in any gear. I have to turn the key on and arc the solenoid witha screw driver. its not the ignition had it replaced, neutral safety switch maybe?
Secondly after it does start it makes a fairly loud knocking sound for a couple seconds then it gets quieter after that, sounds like my old buick before engine quit (crank bearings) but the buick was louder and constant. it also blows smoke from the back of the engine after a couple seconds of running and only for a couple minutes when its warming up then it gradually backs off.
These are only a few problems it has but i would like these resolved first.
Your feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
Ryan
Last edited by Breadman851; Jan 9, 2010 at 03:39 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 58,557
Likes: 1,165
From: Long Beach Calimexifornia
Hello i am new to this site and just recently came accross a 1988 Ford f150 351 auto single cab long box 4x4. And its got a long list of problems i need help with.
Firstly the truck will not start with ignition in any gear. I have to turn the key on and arc the solenoid witha screw driver. its not the ignition had it replaced, neutral safety switch maybe?
Yep. It's a momentary switch. If you jumper it, it should start, but then replace it. It's called a "safty " switch for a reason. I think they're mount position is adjustable similar to an emergency brake switch. If so, your problem may be as simple as an adjustment.
Secondly after it does start it makes a fairly loud knocking sound for a couple seconds then it gets quieter after that, sounds like my old buick before engine quit (crank bearings) but the buick was louder and constant. it also blows smoke from the back of the engine after a couple seconds of running and only for a couple minutes when its warming up then it gradually backs off.
Do this, let it circulate with the oil for a week, drain & add 20% Lucas Oil Stabilizer with your replacement oil.https://www.f150forum.com/f72/how-seafoam-eighth-gen-f150-1987-1991-a-31505/
These are only a few problems it has but i would like these resolved first.
A Dry/Wet Compression test & and an Error code scan would prove enlightening!
Your feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
Ryan
Firstly the truck will not start with ignition in any gear. I have to turn the key on and arc the solenoid witha screw driver. its not the ignition had it replaced, neutral safety switch maybe?
Yep. It's a momentary switch. If you jumper it, it should start, but then replace it. It's called a "safty " switch for a reason. I think they're mount position is adjustable similar to an emergency brake switch. If so, your problem may be as simple as an adjustment.
Secondly after it does start it makes a fairly loud knocking sound for a couple seconds then it gets quieter after that, sounds like my old buick before engine quit (crank bearings) but the buick was louder and constant. it also blows smoke from the back of the engine after a couple seconds of running and only for a couple minutes when its warming up then it gradually backs off.
Do this, let it circulate with the oil for a week, drain & add 20% Lucas Oil Stabilizer with your replacement oil.https://www.f150forum.com/f72/how-seafoam-eighth-gen-f150-1987-1991-a-31505/
These are only a few problems it has but i would like these resolved first.
A Dry/Wet Compression test & and an Error code scan would prove enlightening!
Your feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
Ryan
Thread Starter
'88 f150
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Baxter, MN
one more thing..if i try to start it after it has warmed up and the temp gauge on the dash is pointing at the "o" in Normal, it will not start. If it is on the "N" or the "R" it will. any thoughts?
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 58,557
Likes: 1,165
From: Long Beach Calimexifornia
The first thought that comes to mind is "I'm glad it's not my truck doing that!" I haven't owned a Ford manual trans. since my 63' E100, so I can't help on the switch locations. You don't have a repair manual?
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 58,557
Likes: 1,165
From: Long Beach Calimexifornia
As for switch location, I'm not real sure, mines never had a problem. I think it depends on the transmission.
Last edited by ymeski56; Jan 10, 2010 at 02:08 PM.
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Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 58,557
Likes: 1,165
From: Long Beach Calimexifornia
Library & or browsing the book at the parts store. What trans, I'll check my manual. On AOD my manual say's it screws vertically down into the transmission.