Well just thought I would ask. On occasion the truck wont start. Crank and crank them it will start. This is random and some times it will start and barely run then go for a restart and runs fine. I dont know much history on it and plan on pulling plugs Etc just for a shake down. Im not really sure what all my father inlaw did while owning it. I know some years and versions of vehicles have similar problems. I just thought I ask and see if this seem to be common for a 2002 2.3 5 speed. 115k miles .

Thanks Brad

 

Cycle key on and off 3 times then try to start, you might be losing fuel pressure when engine is off, the fuel pump only runs for 2 seconds with key on, its a safety thing
Cycling the key on and off 3 times will build up lost pressure

If it works then problem is the fuel pump assembly in the gas tank, its leaking fuel out, but inside the tank so not losing fuel
This is assuming you don't SMELL gasoline leaking out of a fuel line

 

Food for thought. Something like that was on my mind like a check valve leaking back or loss of spark maybe crank sensor and I dont even know if this motor has one. Like I Said random and I have not really dived into it. It usually happens when Im on the road and crossing my fingers it will start. Ill apply that if and when it happens again.

 

Watch the CEL(check engine light)
It should come on with key on, that means computer has booted up
Then CEL should go OFF when cranking engine over, that means computer is getting a timing pulse from crank sensor so will start spark and fuel injectors

If you want you can get a can of Quick Start(ether) and carry it with you along with a couple of tools
Then do the 50/50 test when there is a No Start
You spray Ether into the engine
If it starts and dies spark is OK, but no fuel delivery
If it doesn't fire/start then no spark
50/50 instant results on where to look for the problem

Not familiar with the 2.3l duratec but Power Brake vaccum hose can often be removed to spray ether directly into engine, usually just a hose clamp
Or air plenum on upper intake can be removed(big air tube from air filter box)