5.4l 2v 247k miles 03 fx4

[taylor slusher]

Ok so I’d like to see if anyone has any insight on a few issues, well not really issues motor runs fine. I am just OCD if it can be fixed before it becomes a problem do it right?

1) I’ve got a CEL for my fuel pump I forget the actual code as I don’t have the scanner with me at the moment. I believe it’s p0230 primary circuit malfunction
It hasn’t given me any trouble as to starting the vehicle or under any other conditions but when I turn my key to on but not turn over the ignition I hear a high pitched whine coming from the rear of the vehicle I assume it’s my pump giving it all it’s got, so would it be easier just to put a switch for the pump to turn it on or start with relays?

2) once again motor runs fine, but my OCD again with the idle of the vehicle at times it becomes choppy. Kinda like I have a cam but then will stop and go right back to smooth.
My first guess is going to be IAVC but I’ve pulled it and looks to be almost new

 

[Trainmaster]

The right way to diagnose this is with a fuel pressure gauge. They screw into the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. That way you can get an idea of the condition of the fuel pump, filter and regulator. With that high mileage, I'd be more comfortable with a new pump, but either of the other items could hurt a replacement if they are faulty.

If the code shows a pump electrical issue, change the pump.

The pump should run for a few seconds when you turn the key to start the motor, but if the sound's abnormal, there's a pending problem. Probably just time to replace the pump, but beware of the cheap aftermarket replacements; they're junk.

 

[taylor slusher]

The right way to diagnose this is with a fuel pressure gauge. They screw into the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. That way you can get an idea of the condition of the fuel pump, filter and regulator. With that high mileage, I'd be more comfortable with a new pump, but either of the other items could hurt a replacement if they are faulty.

If the code shows a pump electrical issue, change the pump.

The pump should run for a few seconds when you turn the key to start the motor, but if the sound's abnormal, there's a pending problem. Probably just time to replace the pump, but beware of the cheap aftermarket replacements; they're junk.

From what I understand the previous owner just had the pump replaced. But I didn’t see a receipt so I’m assuming it wasn’t or is a cheap pump

 

[Trainmaster]

A cheap replacement pump can well be your problem, especially if you are getting codes that point to electrical issues with the pump.

The cheap pumps are very tempting. Ebay has one for $43. A Ford Motorcraft one is $400. The cheap ones cause problems usually sooner rather than later, but a guy selling the car will be tempted to save the bucks.

 

[Hamfisted]

Yes, buy yourself a fuel pressure test kit and do it right. If you aren't maintaining 50-60 psi of fuel pressure at the rail change the pump. Fix it right or you risk doing further damage to other components and running into even more expense.

https://www.amazon.com/Actron-CP7838-Professional-Pressure-Tester/dp/B0009XQUKC

If the fuel pump was recently changed by the previous owner you should be able to look up on the top of the fuel tank with a mirror and flashlight and it should be fairly clean up there and maybe hand prints visible. Does the fuel filter look new ? A blocked fuel filter will overwork a fuel pump.

-Mike