Starts, then stops.

[Johnny Fargo]

Hello again one and all! I've been having trouble starting up my 95 astro awd. When I turn it over, it fires a few times, then stops. I turn the key off for 5-10 secs, then try again, same thing. I hear the fuel pump come on for 2 secs, then shut off. I end up putting the battery charger on, but it still takes up to 20 min. of trying till I finally get it running. Then its just fine. I've read on a few threads of a "pulsator" Any ideas where this is? I've got new plugs, wires, rotor and cap. I've bought a new fuel filter, but haven't installed yet. Help!

[Vent]

Check the fuel pressure, this engine needs a minimum of 60 psi to start properly. The fuel system should also hold this pressure for at least 5 mins with key off.

[drew300]

I would 2nd the fuel pressure. These vans need more pressure to start than to run. Try some starting fluid and see if it starts well, and runs. This elimimates other electrical problems. I had a weak fuel pump on my '97. Very hard starting, except with fluid, but ran fine. I measured 59 lbs of pressure, but no start. I phoned GM Service, they said "minimum 60" psi. changed the fuel pump, it starts and runs every time now.

[Johnny Fargo]

I will take it in to get a pressure read. I've a feeling that just might be it. I did change the fuel filter, and when I undid the fitting, there was only a little squirt of gas, Yes, I had just ran the van within 10 min. Is ther something that is supposed to hold the pressure? Anyway I priced the pump at $145 at Canadian Tire, Wow, a 1996 pump is $550! Anyway, thanks for the replies, I'll post my outcome.

[drew300]

The pump is supposed to produce too much pressure, which a regulator (at the injectors) releases the extra back to the tank. You shouldn't get much of a squirt when changing the filter as the steel lines won't expand / shrink much at these pressures.
And yes, I was rather surprised at what GM and others charge for these pumps! I think the attitude is "well, do you give me $600.00, or do you scrap the van?"

[Kings-x59]

I heard that...
Had to have the pump replaced on my jeep, cost $900 parts and labor. My astro is so old it runs on the 14 psi pump. I think I'll be dropping the gas tank myself for that one.