1999 7.3L PSD cranks, no start, intermittent start

[Vonnie]

My Hubby's 1999 F350 7.3L PSD was having an intermittent starting problem that is no longer intermittent. Cranks strong but will not catch, when I could get it started it ran great. No smoke/fumes from exhaust while cranking so I'm thinking it is not getting fuel rather than a glo plug issue. Fuel pump is working, filter is new/clean and bowl is filling. Also good quality/quantity of oil including in the high pressure reservoir (you will have to excuse me if I call parts by the wrong name). I replaced the cam sensor thinking that may be the issue but no luck. I would be thankful for any help you could offer as I am pretty clueless.

 

[DaveBen]

Hi Vonnie, and Welcome to Super Duty Diesel. Does it start normally if it is warmed up? If so, you may have a glow plug problem or a wiring harness under the valve covers. The wires run under the valve covers to the glow plugs and may now be connecting correctly. Good Luck.

Dave

 

[Vonnie]

Back when it would start part of the time it did not seem effected by engine or ambient temperature.

 

[95_stroker]

Im wondering about the IDM fuse or the IDM itself.

 

[black_cloud_stroker00]

i had similar problems and it was the PCM. i believe it was $250 to get it reset.

 

[Vonnie]

Thanks guys for the advice and the quick responses! I love this site. Well, I went out this morning and the beast fired right up. Either I am back to an intermittent problem or the crank sensor was the cause but took some serious crank time to kick in. I guess I need to get out of the 911 section, anyone know how to do that.

One last question. Is there any way to reset the PCM manually or do I need access to a scanner.

 

[95_stroker]

I guess I need to get out of the 911 section, anyone know how to do that.

Moved to the 99-03 7.3L engine and chassis forum for more exposure.

 

[DaveBen]

To reset the PCM all you have to do is disconnect the POSITIVE battery cables, leave them off for a few minutes and then reconnect them. This will reset all of the features in the truck like the radio stations, so be forewarned.

Dave

 

[Vonnie]

Ha! Well, that could have been what solved my problem. I had pos cables off to charge batteries after all that cranking.

 

[DaveBen]

I hope all of your problems with the truck are that easy!

Dave