Is it my fuel pump??

[madiesela]

I have had my 2000 chevy astro for almost 3 years with no problems until six months ago. it first started when I was about to leave work went to start my van and it didn't start, my husband came and changed the fuel filter and it started with no problem, then I had to replace the alitinator because it was draining my battery . then again having the problem with the fuel pump???? I am not sure if it is the fuel pump my husband said it is and I cant get him to take it to a real mechanic. everytime i go and start it , it will start and then die right away .I try a couple of times and it still dont work. later on that day I will try it again and it starts fine. Its start fine when it is hot and humid but when its cold it wont start. Is it the fuel pump??? or something else any suggestions please write.
Thank you,

[double_eagle20]

Well, first off, don't be implying that your husband is not a "real mechanic". Many of us who are not real mechanics know that all too well and don't need to be reminded. You'll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.

If you search the last 150 posts on this site, you'll see many of them dealing with very similar problems to the one you are having. I have a similar post from last week. What I have found out is that there are a number of possible sources for this problem and unless you are a "real mechanic", you will have to work your way through them to find the answer. Here are some possiblities.

1) Fuel pump
2) Fuel filter
3) Vacuum leak
4) Fuel pressure regulator
5) Injectors
6) Plugged catalytic convertor
7) EGR
8) Bad plugs or fouled plugs
9) Bad plug wires
10) etc.

I don't believe this is a comprehensive list but it's close. I am working my way through it on my van. Good luck.

TWD

[bduff509]

I have to side with Eagle on that one. Give your husband some credit. Atleast he's willing to try. Some times you make mistakes. When they're expensive you don't make them twice. That uniform & ASE patch don't mean the guy is any good. Some just don't have the "knack". I've met some real shade tree "wizards" in my time. The only thing that holds a lot of us back is not having $20,000 in equipment at our disposal.