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What makes the injectors pulse on a 1988 f150 It has fuel pressure and is firing but will not crank?

On a 1988 Ford F-150, the fuel injectors pulse due to a signal from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), also known as the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The PCM receives various inputs to determine when and how long to pulse each injector. Since your truck has fuel pressure and is *firing* (meaning the ignition system is working), the problem isn't likely within the injector circuit itself. The fact that it won't *crank* points towards a different issue preventing the engine from turning over.

Here's a breakdown of why it's *not* the injectors directly causing the no-crank condition, and what's more likely:

* The injectors are *responding* to a signal: The pulsing injectors indicate the PCM is receiving signals from the crankshaft position sensor (CKP), camshaft position sensor (CMP), and other sensors. If there were a major problem with the injector circuit, you'd likely see *no* pulsing.

* The No-Crank Problem: The most likely culprits for a no-crank situation with fuel pressure and ignition firing are:

* Starter Motor: This is the most common cause. The starter is responsible for engaging the engine's flywheel to get it rotating. It could be failing, having a bad connection, or lacking sufficient power (low battery voltage). Test the starter directly using a jumper wire from the battery (with extreme caution!)

* Battery/Charging System: A weak or dead battery won't provide enough power to crank the engine. Check the battery voltage. Low voltage, even with a seemingly good battery, could also indicate a problem with the alternator.

* Neutral Safety Switch: This switch prevents the starter from engaging unless the transmission is in Park or Neutral. A faulty switch will prevent cranking.

* Ignition Switch: This switch controls the flow of power to the starter. A worn or broken ignition switch will prevent the starter from receiving power.

* Wiring and Connections: Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring in the starting circuit could interrupt the current flow to the starter. Inspect all wiring and connections related to the starter, battery, and ignition switch.

* Solenoid: The starter solenoid is an electromagnet that engages the starter motor. A faulty solenoid won't allow the starter to engage.

In short: The pulsing injectors are a red herring. Focus your troubleshooting efforts on the starting system. Check the battery voltage, inspect the starter motor and its connections, and examine the neutral safety switch and ignition switch. A multimeter will be a very valuable tool for this diagnosis.