1988 Olds not getting gas

[happyrhodes]

Like the fellow with the 1999 Olds mine is not gas either but I can hear the fuel pump turning off after turning off the key. I cant hear the fuel pump start up when I turn the key on however. By spraying gas or quick start I can get the engine running as long as the spray continues but it wont run otherwise. I'm wondering if the fuel pump is working or maybe it's the corrossion thing?

[Mickey#1]

Fuel injected 3.8?

You have to check for fuel at the rail & fuel injector pulse. We need to narrow down the possibilites. Did you check all fuses?

[happyrhodes]

Originally Posted by Mickey#1

Fuel injected 3.8?

You have to check for fuel at the rail & fuel injector pulse. We need to narrow down the possibilites. Did you check all fuses?

Gulp! Sorry to be so dumb but I don't know what the 'rail' is nor do I understand the injector pulse things. Can you help me out with some layman words? Thanks in advance. Oh, fuses, no I didn't check them. I take it the only fuses to check are the ones in the dash board compartment? Thanks again,,,,,Jack.

[Mickey#1]

The fuel rail is the U-shaped metal tube that supplies fuel to all 6 injectors. There should be a cap (about 1/2" diameter) sticking through the plastic engine cover. That cap covers the schrader valve used for checking fuel pressure @ the rail. Turn the key to the run position for a couple seconds to pressurize the fuel lines & rail. Place some rags around the schrader valve & depress the center of the valve. While pressing the valve position your hands so fuel can't spray in your face. There should be about 40 lbs of pressure so the fuel should spray out not just drip or drizzle.

Fuel injector pulse is how we determine if the fuel injectors are getting 12 volts to allow fuel to reach the combustion chamber. This can be checked with a #194 automotive light bulb. Disconnect the wiring harness from a fuel injector & insert the light bulb wires into the wiring harness. While someone cranks the car watch the light bulb. It should pulse.

Let us know what you find.

[happyrhodes]

THANKS! I will be following all the kind advice and will let you know how it goes. I am feeling so much more assured now. I live in the country and have been trapped out here. This helps me feel there is light in the tunnel. Thank you again.