Rough start after sitting for a couple days

[Geoff941]

I don't drive my truck everyday. If it sits for more than a couple days, it takes 3 attempts to get it started. On the first crank it fires right up, runs for 2 seconds and dies. The second crank is longer, never really runs, but coughs and bucks and dies. The third time it cranks for 4 seconds, revs up to 1500 rpm and then runs like a champ.
IRP? Any thoughts?

[2 stroker]

You should check the voltage to the FICM weak or bad batteries will KILL these to replace about $1100 they can redo for around $300. I keep a Battery Tender Plus on mine when it sets. When was the last time the fuel filters were changed remember Ford filters only.

YouTube - Ford 6.0 FICM Testing & Removal Instructional Video

YouTube - Ford 6.0 FICM Testing & Removal Instructional Video

2 stroker

[Geoff941]

New fuel filters about 500 miles ago (last month).
The batteries are 1 year old interstates.
I'll put the battery tender on and see what happens next time.

[Lilpooh]

Just because the batteries are only a year old, don't mean that they are good. Why do you think they offer warranties on automotive batteries. Your gonna need to have them checked individually. As already mentioned, check your FICM voltage.

How's your fuel psi? Do you have a good scan tool for sensor readings?

What brand oil filter and fuel filters are you using?

You can go over this link to start diagnose your issue.
Troubleshooting a No-Start condition

[PGreenSVT]

I had to replace 2 Optima Red tops that were less than a year old. Don't assume.

[Geoff941]

I had Interstate checked the batteries 3 months ago when I was buying new ones for the boat and they tested fine.
The fuel filters were replaced with new Racors and the oil filter is a Motorcraft.
I do not have access to a scan tool, and there are no codes on my Edge Insight.
I'll check the FICM voltage next.

[Geoff941]

Charged the batteries, had them tested, and still the same issue.
I'll get a volt meter from work and test the FICM tomorrow.

The part I don't get is if I start it every day, no problem...

[mah77]

I just checked my FICM today. 48.9v (Key On/Engine Off), and dropped to 48.3v while cranking. Only bad part is the lead on my tester touched the screw and side of the FICM. It sparked, and I about pooped my pants. Checked the voltages 3 more times after that, and got the same results. Hope I dodged a bullet.

[ajpu1983]

I would say FICM or injectors

[powerstroke 825]

This is totally off your subject but i see that one person said Ford fuel filters only! I just replaced my fuel filters about 300 miles ago and put NAPA brand WIX in it. Is there a problem with running these? What brand of oil filter should i run?