Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Lift pump finally died RIP

[Hitec.Redneck]

I guess I am one of the lucky ones, I have gauges installed and was able to detect the death of my lift pump. Yesterday I noticed the pressure was running lower than normal @8psi @ 70mph. Today when I started it the pressure gauge took forever to to move then only went to @ 8 at idle. So this evening i took my spare lift pump I bought @ 6 mos ago and installed it. Now at idle the pressure ( measured at the VP) is 13PSI and at WOT it drops to @9. 5PSI. At 70 its @11psi.
I guess for being almost 7 years old and surviving over 186K miles i got my moneys worth out of that one.

If you have a 2nd gen truck and don't have a fuel pressure gauge you are living on borrowed time.

 

[blacksheepdiesel]

Nope, you weren't lucky, you were prepared!

Good call having the spare on hand.

Godspeed,
Trent

 

[JLandry]

Depending on the brand / type of lift pump, those pressures still sound a tad low.



You might want to double check that your fuel pressure gauge isn't lying to you. Get a "second opinion" with an inexpensive fuel pressure test gauge. Harbor Freight Tools sells a kit for around $20.



The plastic line between my mechanical fuel pressure gauge and isolator recently sprung a small leak so the gauge gradually lost pressure during a 1 hour drive. Until I figured out it was just the gauge, I was just about to replace the lift pump.



Best regards,



John L.

 

[drag racer]

If you have a 2nd gen truck and don't have a fuel pressure gauge you are living on borrowed time.

Boy is that right on! I was able to catch mine went it went at 20k before it left the VP44 high and dry. Went to frame mounted pump and Vulcan kit and never look back. Carrying a spare pump is also a good move.

 

[Hitec.Redneck]

That's exactly what I did. I moved the pump to the frame and did away with all the banjo bolts. Made a big improvement in fuel pressure. I need to order my spare pump, with it relocated it can be changed in @ 20 minutes or less.

I also found out my fuel pressure gauge has a problem, I replaced it and the pressure went up @ 2 more psi on the new gauge.