Replaced rotor and distributor cap started right away, drove 3 miles stop 2 hr won't start cranks fine what next

1. The ignition system on your 5.0L uses a distributor type system and will include the following components:
   1. Ignition control module (ICM). Depending on the year of your specific Ford, it'll have a inner-fender mounted ignition control module or a distributor mounted ignition control module. hot sure which you have.
   2. Ignition coil. you replaced it.
   3. PIP (Profile Ignition Pickup) sensor. This is Ford's name for the crank sensor and is mounted inside the distributor. The most common name for this component is the pick up coil.
   4. Distributor cap and rotor. you replaced
   5. Spark plug wires. you replaced.
2. The thing to keep in mind about the ignition system is that all engine cylinders must get spark and the one thing that will stop the ignition system from creating spark on a wholesale scale is a BAD crank sensor.Have you pulled a plug then using some insulated pliers grounded it to the vehicle and turned it over to see if you have spark, that'll tell you alot.takes two people of course.Best of luck and hope this helps.

I had the same problem . on my 2002 silverado it turned to be the fuel pump failed because the fuel filter was clogged. I did the work myself could saved myself 219.00 and labor if I replaced a 7.00 $ Filter .

When it doesn't start, check for spark from the coil.

I think at the minimum you have a blown head gasket. I am guessing you drove the car a considerable distance with not enough coolant and now you may have done extensive damage to the engine. I am guessing that if the engine still cranks, than the head is warped to an extent where there is not enough compression to support combustion.

Sounds like your engine jumped time. I would match the Top dead center line on the crank with the TDC line on the block . Remove the number 1 spark plug. being VERY careful use a screw driver to enter the spark plug hole. It should stop right away . if the screw driver goes almost all the way in? Do 1 more revelution on the crank to the Top dead center mark. Now that you have achieved this. Take the distributor cap off. The rotor should be on Number one plug wire on the cap. If it isn't far off? loosen the distributor screw and turn the mechanism until the rotor is at number one plug wire. replace the cap and plug and try starting it. If the problem is still present? Your motor needs a timing chain.

not sure about your issue, I thought it was something similar to my own which I just found it to be the crank sensor, rotor and cap. I just changed my fuel filter, not a expert but that could be a issue and very easy to change. By the way how much did a shop charge to change things for you. Trying to get a estimate now and not sure if it is a high /low price

Did you replaced your whole distributor or just the cap and the rotor? Have you check the pressure on you fuel line it could be your fuel pump.

check crank position sensor, run scanner for trouble codes , some auto parts will do this for free

Check if any spark or fuel.

Engines don't jump time when they are not running.

Rotor will point to number 1 plug wire with every other rotation of the crank.

Get an auto repair manual to confirm you have plug wires in right order on distributor cap.

Also suggest finding Factory Service Manuals at library to get troubleshooting charts and diagnostics.