Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting 98 svt won't start. and runs bad when it did.

Hello everyone. Well I am a new (to me) 98 SVT owner that just passed the 70,000 mile make and now it will not start. Yes I have searched through many thread but want to be sure I am on the right path...so please humor me.
Here the probs:
Cranks but won't start. Happened last week, replaced fuel filter, still no start. So i push started it, it ran but was "bucking" w/ 1/4 tank... filled the tank and it ran better. Next morning starts right up, but now the CEL comes on. Was running with a little bucking until this morning when it would not start again, but was turning over.

OK..so I am thinking fuel pump now. yes or no?
if yes should i go with the $210.50 one from ford or the $130 one from Kragen. will both be similar quality?

any suggestion on getting that crap off the MAF sensor screw so i can get it off?

Thanks is adavance for the help.

Check ignition(plug N wires),injectors clogged? About the MAF screw... I used my pocket knife to take off the gook on top of the screw. Hope this helps you.

I had the exact same symptoms, and I used the intake cleaning fix http://www.contour.org/mods/mods.php?s=howto&displayid=43 and it runs great now.

In order of cost:

1. Clean MAF & check/change air filter
2. Clean IAC
3. Clean intake system & check for gasket/tubing leaks
4. Replace fuel pump

My bet would be a good MAF cleaning & a fuel pump will solve your problems under normal conditions. Double check the accordian tube, the intake vac hoses, & the PCV valve & tubing.

IF the symptoms seem to be at their worst as it gets colder, you may have a big vac leak causing your problems. Snug up your manifolds & perhaps even replace the gaskets.

If you're running original plugs, put in a set of Autolite APP764 double plats, and consider some fresh plug wires also if its time. Magnecore, stock, or Autolite Pro-fit series wires seem to work without problems. All others are a waste of money, or generally require more frequent replacement.

thanks for the replies. i have not got the chance to try any of the recommendations yet but i have a few questions:

to clean the intake, we are talking about the two vacuum tubes on top of the manifold on the right side, just to the lef of the MAF/Air intake?

whats the IAC?

when i am checking the air filter, what am i checking for?

called to get fuel pump and they have to order it and it will take about a week, is this common with contours since they are out of production?

thanks again, hopefully i'll get started tonight and get back with the results.

anybody want to help me with my last set of questions above... i'm heading out right now to finally try to get this baby running smooth.
thanks!

and could somebody please explain what and where the throttle body is? pictures?

found the throttle body...but it says so not clean on it.

is it safe to clean?

well thanks to the three who helped me. what happened after that? they were pretty simple questions.... i guess i'm used to the busier explorer forum.

so anyways , result.... cleaned MAF, Intakes, and throttle body....reset computer......started up and, wow, there was THICK white smoke coming out of my exhaust for about 6 mins. after that the car has run great!! so thanks.