Vehicle: 2002 Ford F150 FX4
Engine: 5.4l 2v Triton V8
Mileage: 52,050 miles

Symptoms: Engine cranks and cranks but doesn't start. Pretty obvious that the issue is in the fuel system. Problem is intermittent, usually starts fine but 1 out of every 5 or 6 attempts will fail. Has occurred usually with less than 1/2 tank, but it did this once with a full tank. The usual "fix" to get started is to cycle the key, then she starts right up and runs like a champ!

Research: Google searches have indicated that I should turn the key without starting and listen for fuel pump running in the tank as that should eliminate many possibilities. Pumps priced around $350 + on Advance Auto Parts website.

Also found that a $99 Electronic Fuel Controller typically corrodes and goes bad, but later discovered 97-03 F150's doesn't have those... darn, there goes the cheap fix.

Results: Weather was too bad over weekend to get on ground and check underneath truck for pump sounds and anything else with fuel system. Hoping to check this coming weekend but looks like weather will turn bad again before I get back in town.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to what else I should look for/listen for to help diagnose this issue? Thanks!

 

When it doesn't start, leave the key on and bang on the tank, jarring the fuel pump will sometimes will cause it to work. This will confirm the pump failing.

 

Truck left wife stranded at dollar store this evening, going to garage tomorrow. Oh boy!

 

Its fuel pump most likely. Check and see if you have pressure from your fuel under the hood. And you can buy just the pump instead of the whole assembly for around $100

 

Thinking about changing it myself. Found some instructions elsewhere, hope I don't get in over my head. Seems like the hard part is the time spent getting access to the pump than the pump installation itself.

Going to borrow my cousin's fuel pressure tester tomorrow if I don't end up going out of town.

 

Honestly bro its not that hard me and my gpa did it. It didnt take long at all. Matter a fact my tank on my 97 leaks and now im gonna drop it this saturday and fix it. Holler if you would like me to tell you step by step. I dont mind helping. I could prob take some pics also.

 

You should be able to here the pump without getting under the truck, just leave the driver's door open.

 

Yeah thats not a bad idea either. Just have your wife get in it and turn the key and you try to listen and see if u hear it workin