QuestionHi there,this is for a friend of mine.
'98 Mustang, 3.8 V-6.
Cranks for 15-20 seconds before starting. Once started runs fine, idles 1200 rpm, then drops to 750 rpm. Little better wnen warm (5-10 seconds).
Ford dealer replaced battery and supposively did diagnosis and said there is no problem found. They DID NOT say if fuel pressure was checked.Car has NO problems up hill or under the load.
I put a set of platinum plugs-no change. Wires look good-no difference on the rainy or humid days.
Is there any ignition problems you're aware of?
Or fuel pressure regulator? Leaving key in the "On" position and than cranking DOES NOT help starting time.
What seems to help a little, is holding a gas pedal slightly depressed while cranking--to me should not make a difference on the fuel-injected car?
Please advise?
AnswerLou,
First, I would check your fuel pressure regulator. It could be your timing or the fuel injector pressure. The reason they are probably not finding a trouble code is they are doing a general scan and if everything is within specs. They need to do a DATA SCAN. That will show actual fuel pressure and timing and everything else in real time. If fuel pressure is just a few lbs low, it will not give you a trouble code. This is my suggestion as yoru car is probably low on pressure but still within specs. Hope that this helps and if you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. Good luck.
Ken
