Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) fuel problem possibly lift pump????

[BradG]

hi guys looking for some advice on this newfangeled 02 of my buddys im trying to fix. its been loosing power where it will barely go and puffing grey smoke but its intermitent. i changed the fuel filter which didn't look to bad but i thought by cycling the key i could fill filter housing witout cranking over. just looking for some ideas im a first gen guy

thanks brad greene

 

[JLandry]

Brad,



Just to clarify...



It had low power and produced grey smoke before you changed the fuel filter?



If yes, then you might try some of these:



Check the fuel pressure (after the fuel filter - usually at the Schrader valve where the fuel line goes into the VP44 Fuel Injection Pump).



Replace the air filter.



Replace the coolant temperature sensor.



Replace the MAP sensor.



You said it's intermittent...



Is he able to tie the behavior to any particular operating condition... like it only behaves this way when the engine is cold or hot, etc. That might help everyone come up with more suggestions.



Are there any Diagnostic Trouble Codes being reported? If he doesn't have a code reader, he can try this: Turn ignition key on, off, on, off, on (and leave on) then write down all the codes that are displayed in the odometer window. When Pdone and Edone are displayed, turn the ignition off.



Good luck,



John L.

 

[BradG]

it had problem before and after fuel filter, the air filter is new aftermarket. didn't check ts and map yet check engine light never came on. i will try to get codes tomorow and let you know. i was wondering if lift pump should cycle with ignition.

 

[VolsFan]

yeah, bump the starter without turning the engine on and it should cycle for about 30 seconds.

 

[BradG]

i guess he needs a lift pump then, should he go stock or aftermarket. i checked and found codes 1693 and 1694.

 

[JLandry]

i guess he needs a lift pump then

If he's not getting good fuel pressure when he bumps the starter (but doesn't start the truck)... then yes.

should he go stock or aftermarket

Almost everyone here will recommend an aftermarket lift pump, but from there it depends on how much money he wants to spend against how much pressure, reliability, and frills. If he wants to keep the cost down and get good performance, then an Airtex gearotor-type replacement pump is a nice upgrade over a stock pump. I hear Advance Auto Part stores carries them, or you can buy one at a good price online with free shipping at Diesel Distributors USA.

i checked and found codes 1693 and 1694.

Those DTC's shouldn't have anything to do with the lift pump. If after replacing the lift pump he's still having problems, then that P1694 code might been to be explored.



Regards,



John L.