Starter or fuel pressure problem ?

[JT1123]

96 Chevy Astro van. 4.3 eng

Occasionally won't start. If put key slowly to on can hear fuel pump cycle on and off, turn key to start and she fires right up. However, If I just go sthraight to start (as most of us do), nothing but a noise, no turnover, no ignition no grinding.

Is this a fuel pressure problem ?

[old_master]

Originally Posted by JT1123

96 Chevy Astro van. 4.3 eng

Occasionally won't start. If put key slowly to on can hear fuel pump cycle on and off, turn key to start and she fires right up. However, If I just go sthraight to start (as most of us do), nothing but a noise, no turnover, no ignition no grinding.

Is this a fuel pressure problem ?

This is not a fuel pressure issue. It is however, a good practice to allow the pump to pressurize, or "prime" the system before engaging the starter. What you will find, more than likely, is a poor connection somewhere and it could be anywhere from the ignition switch to the starter, to the battery or any one or more of the circuits connecting them to the battery. First check all connections at the battery, starter, and the ground cable where it connects to the engine block. They should all be shiny and clean and free from corrosion, (green fuzz). Hope this helps.

[drew300]

My'97, (same fuel system), became hard to start. I would prime it few times, (key on/ off), and it would start. Also, if I used starting fluid, it would fire up and run fine.
Finally, after checking electrical connections, I borrowed a fuel pressure guage. I had 59 lbs, engine off. I phoned GM, and the service rep said "60 minimum" psi. I mentioned I had 59, and the rep repeted "60 minimum". Since it ran once started, (they need less pressure after starting), I went ahead and changed the pump. ($480 Can was the best price I got for the assembly). It starts great, and runs fine.
For those interested, the old pump drew 7.5 amps. The new one draws 10 amps.