I really need HELP!

Jeffrey · 02-16-2009, 03:29 PM

My '97 E-350 6L SMB won't run as of today. Turning the key on just flashes the idiot lights on the dash for a second, and then they die. I can start the engine, but it dies after about 15 seconds. This has happened before, but once the engine started, power to the dash (and everything else) came back in a few seconds. I'm not getting that any more.

I have a flatbed on the way, to drag my sorry ass to the Ford dealer.

Of course, I have to leave on a weeks trip tomorrow morning.....

**BroncoHauler** · 02-16-2009, 05:48 PM

I guess Murphy didn't want to be left behind.

Bummer, the way it always bites you at the worst possible moment. Fingers crossed the dealer knows what they're doing.

Herb

sdwindansea · 02-16-2009, 06:18 PM

Unfortunately I'm not going to be of any help...unless pity and condolences somehow do the trick. Just wanted to wish you the best of luck at getting it fixed quickly & completely.

Jeffrey · 02-16-2009, 06:36 PM

Thanks, guys. Your sentiments actually help since I'm home tonight waiting to hear from them in the morning. They'll never call of fix it in time for my trip. The dealer seemed kinda nice, and of course talked about tracing the entire electrical system, and checking voltages at ALL the batteries including the house battery and the isolator. If some moron starts wasting his time on that, they'll never git 'er dun. The SMB house circuits have nothing to do with the dashboard gages! Just plug your computer in and find the problem..,.

jage · 02-16-2009, 08:12 PM

If the oil pressure is out the engine won't run, not sure what the exact symptoms are but I know even a faulty sensor will kill it. That sucks, nothing as bad as being totally dead.

Keep us up to date.

Jeffrey · 02-17-2009, 10:19 AM

GOT IT. It was the big breaker near the dual start batteries. The Ford service guy went to check the batteries, saw that thing was tripped, and when resetting it, all started to work well again.

I'm on the road to New Mexico in about an hour!

So, uh, what exactly is that breaker for, anyway?

Psomaki · 02-17-2009, 10:21 AM

That breaker is a mandated part of the bailout plan, so you'll go pay Ford $$$ and they won't have to get in line for a handout with GM and Chrysler...

Ford_6L_E350 · 02-17-2009, 10:32 AM

My wiring diagram (admittedly for an '04) does not show any breakers between the batteries and the van. Only some fusible links then the gen, glow plugs and the battery junction box. Your results may vary.

Seriously, I hope he showed you where it is and how to reset it.

Mike

jage · 02-17-2009, 11:27 AM

Awesome that you're rolling! Be sure to document the location of this breaker. I need to crawl under my van and see if there is anything near the start batteries.

EMrider · 02-17-2009, 01:33 PM

Quote:

So, uh, what exactly is that breaker for, anyway?

No clue, but that is the first place I'll look if my van ever fails to start.

Glad you're fixed and on the road again.

Rob