Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) air from lift pump

[Piersol]

After I checked my prefilter for dirt (it was clean) The truck would not start. I pumped the plunger and heard air that sounded like it was coming from the injector pump somewhere. At first i thought there was a problem but the I thought "the air has to get out somehow for fuel to get in. After pumping 10-15 times or so I cranked it over and it started right up and runs great. Is air supposed to bleed off like that or is that a problem? It starts instantly even after a day or two of sitting. Also, I am going to check fuel pressure when the adapter comes in from TST. I have the ticking sound. If the pressure is ok should I just forget about the ticking? The cam follower ticking is a horrifiing thought. My last oil analysis was better than average in all catagories. If my lobe was wearing down that would have to show up as metal in the oil right? Help please.

 

[bmoeller]

The ticking could be from the overflow valve, the lift pump, or if the valves need adjusting.



What you were possibly hearing while pumping the primer button was most likely air going out through the return line to the tank. No biggie.

 

[Piersol]

I just adjusted the valves because I thought that was the problem. A few were out but no improvement. The overflow valve was replaced at 80,000 miles. I just checked the spring today it was about . 4 inches. Lift pump is $161 at NAPA. Is that a good price and a good pump?

 

[PUMPERDUDE]

I think what you're hearing is the air/fuel going through the the overflow valve as you prime it. . No problem there... . If your cam lobe was going south, it would stick out like a sore thumb on your oil analysis. As far as the ticking sound,maybe the lift pump or overflow valve. If it ticks at idle,a wooden dowel stick held to your ear might help you locate it.