Ford Repair: 1991 Grand Marquis starting problem..., hartland michigan, randy simmons

Question
Hello Ken,
I am trying to correct a starting problem on my mother in laws Grand Marquis. The initial problem I believe was a weak fuel pump without putting a gauge on it. I am quite sure it had never been changed as the the vehicle has over 100 thousand on it. The pump would engage and pump up, but sometimes it would not start. Also, sometimes when the key is turned on, the pump will not engage. After replacing the pump, it seems to start everytime the pump engages, however the fuel pump at times will not engage and I have to switch the ignition key on and off to get it to engage. The most recent thing I have done to try and correct this is to replace the fuel pump relay. The car has had a new ignition switch installed recently so I have kind of ruled that out as the possible problem. If this relay replacement does not correct the problem, could you tell me what I might look for next? The only thing I can think of would be a bad connection at the tank. Thanks for any suggestions Ken!
                         Randy Simmons
                         Hartland, Michigan  

Answer
Mr. Simmons,

I would say that it is possible that the relay is bad but it sounds more like you have a bad connection at the fuel pump. Check the wires, especially coming out of the tank and along the frame rail. If this does not correct your problem, please contact me again and I will try to assist you further. Good luck.

Ken