95 Astro only starts with starting fluid

[zjb]

Hi guys. My 95 astro only starts with starting fluid. Initially, it would take six or seven tries to turn over. But lately I have to use starting fluid every time. The strange things is that once it starts it runs fine. My mechanic ran a fuel pressure test and it check out okay but that was when the problem initially started. He said that the CPI could be going out and it might need to be replaced. Could the fuel pressure regulator be shot? I installed new plugs, wires, dist cap & rotor, and the ignition coil module also. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

[Blue Bowtie]

Welcome Aboard!

Lacking any other information, it's dangerous to guess, but given the nature of the CPFI system, it certainly sounds like a typical marginal fuel pressure condition. I've encountered this several times. You MUST have 61 PSIG of fuel pressure before cranking the engine. As someone else on the board stated, "Don't leave home without it," primarily because you can't. After running, the fuel pressure can be as low as 56 PSIG and still run, but not for starting.

There are numerous reasons for low standing fuel pressure. The pump, the pickup filter, the pulsation damper, the inline filter, the pressure regulator, the line set ("nut kit"), or any of the six or so electrical connections in the pump circuit could have problems. Marginally low battery voltage can also cause low pressure. You really need to test fuel pressure with a cold engine and before starting.

[zjb]

Thanks,

I will check it in the mornng and see what the psi is.

[drew300]

Hi Bowtie: I thought the higher pressure system started in '96, not '95.
Other than that, I agree. My '97 had 59 psi, would only start on stating fluid, but ran fine after that. Replacing the fuel pump fixed it.