johnnyscott

Hi All, This is my first post, so bear with me. My issue is that I have intermittent issues with my truck. I occasionally just dies. When it does, I've pulled the number one plug wire, and tested it against the frame, and there is no spark. I'll let it sit there for a half hour, or so, and it'll start back up.... for a while, anyway. The coil, plugs, wires, and cap + rotor were all changed about 10,000 miles ago. Last week, the truck simply wouldn't start up at all, but it would turn over just fine. I changed the cap and rotor again, and it started up and ran just fine... now it's starting to stall, again, and is making me think there is another issue. It's definitely a spark issue, as fuel pressure is fine, and the motor is getting plenty of air... any ideas? Is this something with vacuum advance or timing? I will admit that my battery ground cable probably needs to be replaced. Could this be my issue? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

-Johnny

Bert

Since it's not getting spark when it doesn't start, there's a problem with the ignition as you said. The ignition module or the pickup in the distributor is probably where the problem lies. I'b guess at the module.

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Bert

johnnyscott

Hey Bert. Thanks for the reply... This is my first Ford V8, so the help is appreciated. Anyhow, is there a way to test the ignition module? If I replace the module, should I also replace the distributor? Thanks!

-Johnny

johnnyscott

You'll have to forgive me, but is the ignition module also known as the EEC IV Module?

Bert

Why not take it to Autozone and they'll pull codes for free. That may give a better direction. We'll go from there.

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Bert

Bert

Here's how to test on a Ranger but it's similar on yours. Ford Ranger/Bronco II TFI Ignition Diagnostics

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Bert

johnnyscott

The damn truck hasn't been throwing any codes.... Maybe my light is defective, but it lights up when I start the truck... That's why I was initially thinking it was a vacuum issue...because that won't throw a code. I'll throw the OBD II on it and see if anything shows up...

johnnyscott

I'll just throw a new module in, this weekend, and see what happens! Thanks for the tips. I'll let you know if it works.

-johnny

johnnyscott

So, I swapped out the ICM, and the truck seems to be running much better, but today, I've driven about 400 miles and the truck "coughed" about four times... The Tach just dropped, but the motor picked up and I continued on... Could this be the pick-up deal in the distributor?

Bert

It's possible. Did you check for codes?

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Bert