I have a hard to start problem. Once I get it started it runs fine for a couple minutes and then it just shuts off, just like I hit the key.
So, yea, the battery was junk. But hey, it was a 2 year warranty battery, that I installed it June of '07. I can't complain about that can I?
However, I wanted to dismiss the battery because I figured the alternator would run it once I got it started.
So, First thing, I took a SCM (spark control module) off a salvage vehicle I had in the field. Problem persisted.
So, I wondered if it could be battery after all. So I took a battery out of a running vehicle, (so i knew it was good) and the problem still persists.
Ok, maybe the salvage SCM was bad to? I took the original SCM with me to the parts store when I went after a battery. The SCM tested fine. So that rules it out.
Again, the shut off is instant, and it runs fine when it finally starts. Thease things lead me in the direction of ignition rather than fuel issue.
So what now, stater? I dread pulling the distributor for that. Neutral start switch? I could see that make it crank and crank before it finally starts, but I can't see it shutting it off.
What else?
Thanks

 

Bree, I don't know much about the new systems in vehicles these days, but I'll opine just a bit. I wouldn't think it's the starter, as all it does is start the engine. So, if it's operating correctly you should be good there. Neutral safety switch, maybe, but I doubt it because if the shift lever is in park or neutral and the engine start every time you hit the switch that's what it does. You could check the ignition switch. I had a car that the switch was bad, and if you hit a bump it would cut off. It would restart fine. That's all I got young lady, so I hope this helps. Good luck.

 

What year is the truck?

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The vehicle is a '91. with a 5.0L

Wanted, I said STATE-er, not starter..... The magneto- like thing in the bottom of the distributor... Maybe there's another name for it? But I will give the NSS further consideration, I knew they could keep them from starting, I did not know it would shut it off, and that bit of info was what I was hoping to confirm. Thanks.

 

My bad, I saw "starter" when I read the post. I'm not sure what the other part does. Your ahead of me here. I hope you find the problem soon.

 

I have finally had the opportunity to speak with a mechanic friend, and he is pointing me in the direction of a weak fuel pump. He said it could be putting out just enough to start it but not run it.

For the record, Stater it's in the bottom of the distributor, a round plate with metal fins passes by a coil type deal. It replaces breaker points. Found on most 80's and 90's models, until coil-packs took over.