Hard Starting

[Bob Ellithorpe]

My 94 3500 Dodge has aquired a hard starting problem. In order to get it to start,I have to use the primer button on the lift pump,once I do that, it will fire right up,if I don't use the primer it won't start!!! There's no problem starting it after that until it sets overnight,then it refuses to start the next morning. It acts as if it's loosing it's prime. I suspect the lift pump may be bad but I'm not sure. The fuel filter hasn't been changed recently but,I didn't think that would cause it to lose it's prime.
Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!!

 

[bd450]

Check the fuel return line. Probably cracked.
$10 and an hour of cussin to replace it.



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96 RAM 2500 4x4 Ext Cab Auto, TFOD kit, A-pillar gauges, TST #8, 1Ton slv cyls , frnt rcvr.

 

[illflem]

Bob, you describe the symptoms of a leaking return line to a T. My '95 took 18" of 5/16" id fuel line and two hose clamps, cost about five bucks. I've replaced several on different rigs, I've found that removing the fuel filter and the two nuts that hold the master cylinder so you can swing it out of the way make the job easier. I just cut the old clamps off rather than mess with them. Dodge will charge you over $100 for this simple, but frustrating job.

 

[Missouri Mule]

Bob,
Return fuel line seems to be culprit as mentioned above.
You should be able to see tell tale signs of leaking fuel return line. Your starter should have signs of a liquid (diesel fuel) dripping down on it.
You can rule out the return fuel valve (also can cause similar symptoms) when you use the primer button you should be able to hear the fuel squeezing(makes a squeaking noise) thru the valve after enough pressure builds up.
Check to see if fuel filter could be leaking also, especially by where the drain screws into filter.
Usually the lift pump will leak when it goes bad but a check valve could of gave out.


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Bill Thomas
Missouri Mule - 96 Wht 4X4 ST CC,5 spd, 3. 54, 8 ft bed, 1 ft high cheater boards.
99 Freightliner bl/wht FL60 ISB-5. 9 24v,215 hp,520 tq,6 spd, 3. 59 nsr,16 ft box, 19. 5 tires,Wt/gvw 11,000/23000