2002 f250 7.3l starting problems.

[DaveS]

I have a 2002 f 250 7.3L 180,000 miles and I have been having problems getting it going. The problem started before it was too cold but seems to have gotten worse with the cold, and only does it on a cold start. On a cold start I can go out and start it right up, it will idle a littleb rough and smoke, then will die after about 5 minutes. Then it is a bear to start I have to crank it and go through several episodes of running it at a high idle and dying before it finally smooths out and runs normal. I thought it was a fuel issue because It always starts right up the initial time, but then after that I have to work it to get it going regardless of how long it sits after the initial try. I have tried to plug it in and that seems to help, it will still idle a little rough, but wont die and smooths off after the initial warn up. I have no other issues once it is warm, and the engine light only comes on when it is idling rough then goes out.

I did replace the turbo this spring and also the engine temp gauge has not worked for several years, i tried changing the water temp sensor that is up front by the thermostat, but that wasn't it. Someone told me that there is another sensor for that, but I can,t seem to find it. also this problem is recent.

My thoughts at this point are maybe the cam position sensor, or injectors, or the temp sensor, i really don't know. i think that it is wierd that it is only on initial startup and once I work though it it is fine.

I have already replaced the fuel pump and spent a lot of time messing with the fuel.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreiciated

Thanks

Dave

[rocksdhill]

I have heard that the fuel return lines can cause this or injectors also the FICM. The install kit runs about 35 bucks on ebay for return lines . I am going to try this myself when weather warms up. The module can cost 300 to 400 rebuilt. The injectors or injector pump cost bank !