Won't start

My 91' Grand Prix has a 3.1 that has 110,000 miles on it and it won't start. It happened one night after work. It would crank over and over and over real strong, but acted like it wasn't getting fuel (half a tank), so I left my car and came back in the morning with a trailer. Ha-Ha, very funny, it started right up! I thought it might be a fuel filter, so I replaced that, and it started (Hurray!) Unfortunately, the next morning, cranking strong but no starting.

I've listened to and can hear the fuel pump presurizing when I turn the key before starting for about three seconds, but I've also noticed the same presurizing sound running for about 10 second after each time that I've attempted to get the engine to turn over. The fuel pump relay seems to be good. Does this sound like I need a new fuel pump? I didn't want to buy a pump and drop the tank unless I have to.

I've been reading about similar problems where others (Big L) have suggested replacing the crank position sensor. I've never had the engine stall when traveling down the road, but it has occassionally bogged down when I'm traveling at a consistent speed and give it a little more throttle. I'm guessing that's unrelated though, and was planning to try some fuel injector cleaner when I get it running again. What do you think about the possibility of it being the crank position sensor?

I have a 92 GP with the 3.1 and am having the same problems. It just shut off one day while driving, luckily I was close to home. It will start occasionally and sounds fine but runs for a few seconds before it dies. I was thinking fuel pressure regulator (possibly flooding) but not sure. I am also questioning the security system as well. What was your fix? Thanks!

Hey jl, try replacing the fuel pump resistor.I had the same thing happen on my 98 gtp running for a few then dying.your local dealer should have a relocation kit for bout 50 bucks.The resistor is located on the pass. side frame rail behind the washer bottle.You will have to remove part of the inner fender to get to it from underneath.

It was the the crank position sensor. I wasn't sure that I could successfully replace it myself, so I took it to a local mechanic and told him what I suspected. He tested and changed it for less than $100 parts and labor. It's been running without problems for the last six months. I dumped some SeaFoam in the gas tank after the repair was complete and it really helped increase performance. I plan to continue using SeaFoam every 6,000 miles.

I'd found other strands in the forum that described how to change the crank position sensor on my own, but I chickened out. I think the sensor goes for about $35.