Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Concerns about opening the fuel system at the Injection Pump...

[fkovalski]

I am soon going to be replacing the vacuum pump seal on my 2001 per instructions in this thread: Vacuum Pump R & R. Item #8 instructs " Disconnect the fuel line where it connects to the injection pump. "



I have read where folks run into problems when opening up the fuel lines. I have never done this before (I even have the dealer replace my fuel filters. ) I want to have all information at hand prior to opening up my toolbox. What precautions do I need to do before attempting this procedure? I am concerned about air getting into the lines and having a hard starting situation. Is there a definative thread on proper bleeding of the system if I run into this problem?

 

[BarryG]

Frank:

I do not know of a definitve thread but it is easy to do. First your truck may start and then die and then not restart. Or it may not start at all. If either is the case about all you can do is bleed the lines. Just follow one of the fuel lines up by the valve cover and you will find a large nut on the end of the fuel line. Just loosen it a bit (not too loose, and keep you hands, fingers and face away from it if someone else is cranking for you as it is high pressure) and crank the engine until fuel starts spewing out. Tighten that nut back down and move to the next one. I start on the 4th one back and move forward. I have never had to do more than three to get it to start after opening the fuel system or running out of fuel.