We have a 1997 F-350 4 dr long bed. It ran great and was very strong. Last year, we were delivering firewood and as we were going down a back road (35-40mph) The truck sputtered a couple times and then stalled. It never started back up. Since then, several diesel mechanics have looked at the truck but has no idea why it wont start/run. Does anyone have any advice?

 

Has the cam position sensor (CMP) ever been replaced??

There's an open recall running from Ford for a new unit..The injectors won't fire unless a tach signal is seen by the PCM/IDM (trucks computer, and injector driver module).. Could be other reason's, but the CMP is a major reason for 7.3 stalls..

 

Yes it has been replaced. But not by Ford. A local diesel mechanic replaced it. May need to be replaced again.

 

Possibly,,, and if it is the cause,, you can/will be reimbursed by Ford for the old CMP's plus labor if you can producea receipt/s.. Your mechanic should have a scanner with the capability of looking into the trucks 'data stream'.. There he'll be able to see if the CMP is producing a tach signal, as well as to check thatthe much needed high pressure oil(500lbs min) to fire the injectors is spec for a startup..

The way these engines start is,,,

The engine 'must' crank at a 'minimum' of 100 RPM or it won't start..
The HPOP (high pressure oil pump) must be able to build 500lbs of pressurized oil for the injector 'push'..
The PCM needs to see a tach signal for the injector driver module to energize/fire the coil/solenoid side of the injectors.
There has to good fuel pressure and volume (might want to check that).

Also, on ocassion the fuel heater inside the water seperator/fuel filterbowl will short out and blow the PCM fuse causing a no start condition..

 

Sounds like I just need to take it to the Ford dealership. I just wonder how much they will charge to even look at it?