2003 Expedition issues, HELP!

[NCDeere]

Hey guys,

I have a couple issues with my wife's 2003 Expedition.

1. Power steering fluid leak... I am assuming the pump needs replacing as I filled the resovoir up and have now had to do it again... Does anyone have a good link to show how to change it out... I have never had to change out a power steering pump on anything... so I guess I'm overdue...

2. It is difficult to start... this is going to sound strange, but just read on... it turns over nice, battery is up fine... but won't start on first try... however, if I turn off the ignition, then turn it back on it usually starts fine... what the heck???

3. The driver window switch allows the drivers window to go down easy, but when trying to get the window back up, it doesn't go smooth... in fact it stops... if you press it just right it will go up... does that mean the switch itself needs replacing?


Any help on these issues would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,

Bryan

 

[tonydiv]

Issue #2 sounds like a fuel filter. When was the last time it was changed.
It could also be the fuel pump relay. It's easy to test, just swap it out with one of the other relays, and see if it cures the problem.

 

[ELVATO]

Have you checked to see where the actual leak is coming from? Maybe it's just one of the hoses? Have someone turn the wheel while you check to see if you can see the leak somewhere?

 

[eleanorsnemesis]

I agree with Tonydiv, fuel filter> I had same problem starting hard had fuel filter changed and it now starts like new.

 

[NCDeere]

Thanks for the replies.

First, it was the hose and I have one ordered. It should be here tomorrow. I will try the fuel filter. Sadly, I don't remember when it was changed last. What is the reccommended change frequency for that?

Is there a place on this forum that has articles showing "how-to's" with pics?


Thanks again...

 

[ELVATO]

The "How To" section, under the suspension and towing subforums.

From what I understand, the fuel filter should be changed every 15k miles.

 

[Stoned06]

It sounds as if your issue is either fuel pump related (it's not holding residual pressure and it needs to re-pressurize the fuel line) or you need to change the fuel filter. Before you start it next time, turn the ignition on and don't crank it. Hold it there for a few seconds before cranking. If it starts after waiting, it most likely is the fuel pump not retaining pressure when the ignition is turned off.
I think Ford recommends changing the fuel filter every 30K miles, but every 15 isn't a bad idea. It's not too difficult to change. I haven't seen a how to, but you need a fuel filter wrench to remove the filter from the fuel line. The filter is under a plastic cover that needs to be removed on the front side of the fuel tank.

 

[ELVATO]

Here's where the fuel filter is on an 03: http://expeditionforum.com/showthread.php?t=2994

 

[Stoned06]

It looks as if the FF is a little different year to year. On my '06, it is under a cover that is bolted down right in front of the gas tank, and runs side to side. In that post Elvato showed, it runs front to back on the rail. I also needed a filter removal tool, and they stated it just popped of with quick releases. Interesting that Ford changed the configuration.

 

[ELVATO]

Hmm, wonder if they changed it when they changed to the 3V 5.4L.