Finally Quit Starting

[bradsguns]

This is similiar to a post below, but I would like some last opinions before it goes into the shop for the 3rd time(or I fix it myself). Engine will not start UNLESS we prime the carb with a little gas or starting fluid. Once started, she runs just fine, but it will not even fire unless I pull the air filter stem off and give it a shot of fuel. So if anyone knows, if there is a diaphram type device somewhere in the system that could be sticking?? The fuel pump works fine and the engine runs great once started.
The problem has progressed from hard starting, to very hard to now not at all without a primer. After reading, thought it may be the fuel pressure regulator, but would like verification or other ideas. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Brad
PS: 1997 GMC Sierra P/U - V6 Vortec Engine - Fuel Injected - No codes showing on the scanner.

[jdod85]

My 1999 GMC was hard as hell to start. the fuel pressure regulator was the problem on my truck.

[dracer398]

jdod85 is right. Check your fuel pressure. I'm not sure exactly what the pressure is supposed to be but I think it should be over 52psi. If the pressure is lower than the recommended minimum it will not start. It also could be the fuel pump which is pretty common.


Good Luck!

[bigpuppy]

Try this, I had a 1998 K1500 5.0 It had a similar problem. If I cut it off and started it within a few minutes it was ok. Any longer than that and it would take forever. What I found was the fuel line in the tank that runs from the fuel pump up to the top of the assembly had a hole rubbed in it from one of the 3 long spring loaded rods holding the fuel pump. Try this. turn the key on but don't start it. You should here the fuel pump prime. Do this several times before starting. Each time wait for the fuel pump to cycle. It won't run long, so be patient. Then see if it starts better. Let me know if that fixes it..

[Mycrofte]

Mine has been doing this (off and on) for 6 months. Got off work yesterday and it wouldn't start.

I've replaced the fuel filter and had a shop check the pressure.

I pulled one of the spark plugs out and it was dry as a bone. Came to the conclusion the "fuel prime" is not working. For those who do not know, with fuel injection, when you turn the key to start the pump runs for a few seconds to make sure there is fuel to start the engine.

That is why it will start with fuel dumped in the air cleaner and then run fine. I plan on replacing the Fuel Pump Relay this weekend to see if that fixes the problem. Assuming I can find it...

[maxwedge]

Welcome to AF, this is a 7 yr old dead thread! In the future please start a new one.

[Mycrofte]

I didn't notice that until after I posted. I figured it would be easier to search for all in one place anyway.

Thanx!