1984 ford f-150 won't start, no lights, spark but won't turn over

Asked by Guru1KPSK Sep 18, 2019 at 12:58 PM about the 1984 Ford F-150 STD Standard Cab 4WD LB

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I purchased this 4x4 truck six months ago. Dual
tanks. It sat for several years (or more). I added
fuel additives to the tanks because it is a gutless
wonder. Even after running the old gas out of the
tanks, step on the pedal to finally cross traffic and
it hesitates, and sluggish, nearly dying in front of
oncoming traffic. Going uphill on the highway, I
have to shift down to 3rd to get up the hill (near
crawling). It does a little better if you pull back on
the throttle rather than pedal to floor but still
gutless. Hard to crank over lately. Replaced ignition
switch. Valve cover oil leak (burning smell), so
removed vacuum lines yesterday to replace, had no
7/16 socket so just returned vacuum lines to
original positions and no start, no radio, no
lights...got spark but no turnover, no sound,
nothing. Tried cleaning carb. Could the ignition
module have gone out coincidentally or did I
possibly do something when I reinserted the
vacuum lines? I checked the fuses as well. All
good. The battery tests good. Can I test the
ignition module? I know the timing is off but I can't
successfully reset it (i need some special tool)? I
don't know what to do. I don't have the money to
just guess at replace this that and the other thing.
Please tell me what you think would rectify my
problems?? Help please. Thanks

1 Answer

74,270

Has the fuel filter been changed? Is it clogged? Will the truck start with starting fluid? Does the starter engage and spin the engine when you turn the key to start?

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