Hey Scotty,
Big fan of your videos, and I've been learning a lot. I recently got an old F-150 for the price of...free! Last time it was on the road was 2012 and I just got it up and running a few months ago. I really wanted a truck (but not willing to spend truck prices) and thought it would be a fun project, but you know how it goes, there is always going to be more to it then you first think. We've done quite a bit to it already to get it going again, including fuel tank, pumps, filters, injectors, spark plugs, and basically a new exhaust after the Y pipe - a few more odds and ends but basically new exhaust and fuel delivery system from the front tank.
It's working okay, but I've definitely been having some issues, like hard cold starts, bad idling, jumpy while driving (maybe misfiring?) with some delayed throttle response, and lack of power. I think it's mostly connected to the fuel/air ratio, so I've been addressing it by giving the TPS a good cleaning, replacing the IAC, and replacing the MAP sensor. I've done a little fuel and oil system cleaning by using mostly seafoam (I know I know, you're not a fan - but everybody seems to like it and that's what the local auto store guys tell me to use all the time).
Things have gotten better from what I can tell, but I'm still seeing some problems - specifically the hard cold starts (the truck almost stalls every single time on the first start) and the jumpiness while driving.
My questions are:
1. What would you look at next to address the fuel/air ratio problems I'm having? Am I even on the right track? I was thinking catalytic converters, but as you know, they can get pricey. Any ideas you have here would be much appreciated!
2. Want to hear your general thoughts on the '89 ford F150 with the 5.0 motor. Would value your opinion here!
I would start off by checking for vacuum leaks. Your fuel/air ratio is directly affected by those.
Thanks for the advice, Justin, I'll give that a try asap. Sorry if it's a stupid question (I'm new to being my own mechanic) is the best way to check the vacuum lines to just get the truck idling and pull hoses off and checking for suction? Would that mess anything up if I were to do that?
Just spray starter fluid or carburetor cleaner and listen for an RPM change. If you're using starter fluid, it works best if your engine is completely cold. Starter fluid is extremely volatile and obviously equally flammable. Carb cleaner is much less so.