Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Fuel System Troubles

[CToney]

I am having some hard to start and smoking after start up problems as well as some reduction in fuel economy problems. I have changed the prefilter and square cut o-ring before the fuel heater, I inspected the hose from the heater to the lift pump, I changed the overflow valve because I could not hear it operating. I then took some 3/8 fuel line and stuck it in a can of diesel and bled the system. I tried to see if I could hear the overflow valve work I could not. The guy who had the truck before me had the lift pump changed so I did not suspect it but now I think it is weak. It doesn't quite pump like the ones on our tractors. For the lift pump not to last very long I would sespect maybe a problem with the metal fuel line or the pickup in the tank. My fuel sender does not operate either. I hope I am on the right track. Is MA Mopar the only place to get a new sender and what problems can a guy run into in the tank. I was also wondering where a guy can get the hose and the fitting that goes on top of the tank that comes with the FASS system. If I cannot find the problem in the tank I think that is what I would do I would also bypass the fuel heater and stick in a different prefilter like is on our tractors.



I hope this isn't too long winded but, I'm fed up and I want my '97 to run like my ole '93 does.



CR Toney

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Well before throwing more parts at it or tearing into your fuel tank check your fuel pressure. You could get one of these and screw it into the outlet side of your filter canister then connect a gauge with a hose having a 1/8" NPT fitting http://www.genosgarage.com/prodinfo.asp?number=BF-LONG-TAPPED



I don't think an air leak downstream or a problem with in the tank pickup would cause a startup problem & white smoke. Another off chance is maybe your timing slipped badly?



Vaughn

 

[KWentling]

Are you're grid heaters working? That could answer the hard start and smoke (if it is white smoke) when first started. Don't think it would have any effect on milage though. I would doubt you would need another fuel pump allready. They're usually good for 200K or more.



Kim