1999 F150 5.4 four wheel drive --when I crank the truck, for a few sec.'s the gages peg out to the right along with the speedometer then they return to normal--whats going on justed started doing this

 

There is a TSB on this (#15219) and if memory serves me right when I inquired about my truck doing this, was told that it was just a normal self diagnostic check of the gauges and not to worry. It hasn't happened since I replaced the instrument cluster because of intermittent display problems so personally I'm not sure if the two are related or not. Try doing a site search ( right hand side of screen) on this topic as it has been mention before and maybe some one has more info on this. Hope this helps.

BTW Welcome to FTE.

 

Actually, it's a sign that the PCM is not receiving enough voltage from the truck's battery to retain it's settings after the truck has been turned off for awhile. 99% of the time, a weak battery is the cause.

 

thanks PaulC was hoping that might be the problem --the battery is a 99 also so off to the store i go thanks again doug

 

Mine did that a couple of times and then the battery died.......check/replace your battery and use those felt washers and electrical grease stuff to keep a good connection.

 

Mine did the same thing 2 weeks ago when I ran the battery down while camping.

Tried starting the truck ('03 FX4) and the gauges pegged out, then click click click from the starter. Got a boost and everything has been OK ever since.

Based on the age of your truck I'd agree with Paul and Triton 2002 and go with a weak battery.

Hope this helps.

Mike