Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Injector pump going south???

[rashwor]

Been having a problem for a while and it is getting worse in this warm weather. The problem is that the truck when cold (first start of the day for example) will turn over 2 - 3 times and fires right up. This is acceptable behavior. However, drive it for a while and get it warmed up good and then kill it. Let it set a few minutes to near an hour. Truck will turn over for 10+ seconds before it fires and starts. Once it starts runs great with no complaints. This has been going on for a couple of years, but it is getting noticiably worse this year as summer comes on. The 10+ second issue just started in the last couple of weeks. Check fuel pressures both pre and post filter. Running a minimum of 10#+ with no more than 2# drop accross the filter.



Stumped. Your thoughts on what it could be. Truck has an appointment with a reputable diesel shop Wednesday morning. New VP44 just shy of $1300.

 

[klaybus]

Just a thought

Could you have a small air leak in the fuel system? I remember reading a post where someone was having a similar problem & there was actually a small air leak in the system & that was causing some starting problems like your describing.

Just a thought... ... Best of luck!



Clay

 

[98slushbox]

starting trouble

i put the pe4200 fuel sys. on my truck and shortly after that i had a similar problem. it took a while to start. There was no sign of any leaks anywhere in the lines, but my brother just happened to pick the right fitting. He took it off, tightened it, put it back on and it has worked fine ever since. If you have stock lines one could be cracked or loose.

 

[rkressg]

It sounds like you have an air leak. When the truck is cold, the parts contract and possibly stop the leak, when the engine is hot, the tolearnces increase and cause a leak. Check your HP fuel lines for leaks, IE look for fuel spilling on the side of your block or across the intake or anywhere else. DO NOT check for a leak with your fingers or any other body part, use a piece of cardboard. The fuel is under such pressure that it will cut straight through a finger!

Check that all fittings are tight.



While starting, the lift pump should cycle to 25% duty, only about 4psi. Too much fuel pressure at startup can also cause hard starts.



There is also a TSB for hard starts, but it relates to hard starts with #1 diesel and cold climates.



I do not think your VP44 is dying, but if it has extended miles on it with a bad or weak LP, then it might be going south. The only good thing I can say about that is it is easy to change :{ just very expensive.

I hope this helps.

-Rich