1996 starting problems mabe fuel pump

[cbrpower]

I have a 1996 Blazer with about 130,000 miles and lately it has been harder and harder to start, so i started turning the key a couple of times to prime the fuel pump and seemed to start better then just turning the key. and after that it would run fine but if i let it sit about 15-20 minutes then i would have to prime it again...... but yesterday it failed me. it wouldnt start at all.... so i took some fuel and poured it into the throttle body and it started right up!!, and ran fine.. i am thinking it is a Fuel pump.. and i am thinking about buying one soon.... so if anyone knows anything it could be please help.... also how hard is it to replace the fuel pump?

[Mikado14]

First of all, when was the last time you replaced the fuel filter?

Next, do you have the means of checking the fuel pressure at the schrader valve on the fuel rail?

Changing the fuel pump means dropping the fuel tank. It is not difficult on a lift but on the ground, it is a little harder since your laying on your back. You should have three lines that need to be removed and a plug for the pump and fuel sender. There is not much play in them. Not too sure about this but there is a plastic cover that needs to be dropped and then the tank which has two straps.

I would recommend getting a Haynes or a Chilton's which should outline the procedure for your vehicle.

[cbrpower]

thanks for the info..... no i dont have a way to do a pressure test but i did replace the filter about a week ago and it did help a little but it still got worse.....

[Mikado14]

I'm not one to emphatically tell someone to change a part but you really should have the fuel pressure checked before you start swapping out parts. However, you would be surprised by how many problems can be attributed to weak pumps.

One thing you can half way eliminate is the pressure regulator. Pull the vacuum line off and see if there is any gas present. There shouldn't be. Only vacuum when running, but do it with the engine off. If gas leaks out, the diaphragm is ruptured. You will need to change the regulator and change the engine oil out and filter. But I doubt that is your problem from your description.

[tom3]

Fuel pump. Have to replace the whole assembly, can't get just the pump. Not an easy job and that assembly is well over $300. Mechanics are building their retirements on GM fuel pumps and coolant leaks these days.

[cbrpower]

Originally Posted by tom3

Fuel pump. Have to replace the whole assembly, can't get just the pump. Not an easy job and that assembly is well over $300. Mechanics are building their retirements on GM fuel pumps and coolant leaks these days.

thanks.... i just bought 1 today at the autozone for $230.00... i guess this will be a good job for tomorrow...

[ricksza]

Originally Posted by cbrpower

thanks.... i just bought 1 today at the autozone for $230.00... i guess this will be a good job for tomorrow...

Before you replace the fuel pump, check the fuel pressure. If it drops as soon as the engine shuts off, you have a leak. Most common with the 4.3 W engine is the fuel pressure regulator followed by injectors. I do regulators on a regular basis at the dealer.