My 1987 E350 Won't Start
The Ford Motor Company introduced the Econoline-series van to the consumer market for the 1961 model year. In 1987, two engine options were available from the factory: a 4.9-liter L6 and a 5.8-liter V-8. Without following necessary tune-up and service specifications, this van might be prone to starting problems.
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Instructions
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Problems with Econoline Starting
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1
Insert key into the steering column and turn to determine the depth of the starting issue. If the key turns in the ignition but no sounds can be heard and no actions take place, then the battery is most likely at fault. Some Econoline vans come equipped with a wheelchair-loading mechanism, which could drain the vehicle's battery at a relatively quick pace. By maintaining the electrical current throughout the engine and the rest of the vehicle's electronic functions, the battery can quickly drain.
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2
Check the connection on the battery and make sure there is no dirt or other build-up on the positive and negative connectors. To determine whether or not the actual battery can still power the vehicle, use a voltage meter to pinpoint the amount of current. If minimal or no signs of activity come from the battery, it is time to replace it. Make sure to notate how the battery is positioned before removing, for a misconnection could result in more problems under the hood.
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3
Check the spark plugs, located on both the passenger's and driver's side for V-8 models, and make sure the connection appears fine and that everything looks clean. The ignition can be the culprit of a non-starting motor, just like the battery. When the key is turned and interior lights and dash display remain illuminated, then the ignition system is most likely to blame.
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4
Remove any questionable plugs and replace with new ones, for replacements are cheaper and more effective than trying to clean and repair old ones. Make sure the wires connecting the plugs to the ignition box are in good shape. Any frayed or strained wires should be replaced with new ones. This will maximize current flow from the plugs to the rest of the ignition system.
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5
Check the Econoline's alternator strength by trying to start the vehicle once again. The main function of the alternator is to keep the battery charged, thus keeping the engine running at a consistent pace. By using that same power harnessed within the battery to power electrical parts of the van's interior and exterior, a faulty alternator can be pinpointed rather easily. Flickering lights and an engine that is slow to start or that won't stay running indicates a bad alternator.
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6
Disconnect the van's battery before replacing the alternator. Because of the amount of electrical current flowing from the battery to the alternator, this will ensure all electricity will be cut-off. The alternator should be replaced with a factory-specified alternator to ensure proper operation.
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