Hard/No start when Cold outside

[THEEDGE714]

My 1998 5.0L was having problems starting this summer and I diagnosed it down to a bad crank sensor. I was able to replace it and everything was fine. Now that it has started getting cold in Indiana, the van is having problems starting again. It either takes 10 or 15 tries and finally starts and I have to play with the throttle to keep it going, and then once it is running it is fine. Or...I crank it so much that the battery dies...

I'm thinking of cleaning the IAC motor and also trying to borrow a scan tool to check the coolant temp and intake air temp sensors. Any other ideas???

Thanks,

Doug

[MrShorty]

In addition, I'd check fuel pressure.

[dwill3015]

How is your fuel delivery system? (pump, filter, fuel pressure relay)

[THEEDGE714]

The Fuel Pump was replaced about 6 months ago and I checked the fuel pressure when I was battling a crank sensor problem about 2 weeks ago and it measured about 55psi. I think that all is OK. Its really weird...it acts like it's not getting fuel when it's cold. I read the codes today and there were none set. Turned the key on and it showed the CLT temp and Intake air temp both at about 59F, which was because it was colder outside than that, but it is a black van and it was sitting in the sun. Couldn't get it to fire consistently and wouldn't start. Pulled the CLT temp conn. off to make it think it was -40, and it finally gave more fuel and started. I know it needs new plugs because they have 100,000 miles on them. I asked the dealership to change them when they put on the Intake Manifold and they said they only changed the one plug that was fouled due to the manifold leak. The others looked fine....yeah...they didn't want to change them! Looks like it will be a fun job....

[tlperry68]

I might try the spark plugs. Also what ever electrical system you have that delivers power to the plugs. In colder weather moisture can collect on the metalic parts and start to corode them weakening your system. just a thought.