Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) No fuel pressure during cold-weather start?

[Troubleshooter]

Question for the more experienced: I’ve got an ’01 CTD fitted with BD’s Low Fuel Pressure warning kit (LED which lights at < 5psi). The truck has 93K miles, so the powertrain should still be under warranty. To my knowledge, it’s the original lift pump (I bought it used at 42K miles, so not positive about what the prior owner might have done).



I just started last week on a temporary job in the cold weather states. Lately, the LED lights just after starting, indicating a low pressure situation. It stays on for perhaps 30 seconds in the morning (0-2*F outside temp) and perhaps only 5 seconds in the evening (10-20*F outside temps) and then goes out, indicating adequate fuel pressure. No problem in the middle of the day, when it's a tiny bit warmer outside. Note that I am not home, and therefore have no way to check the actual fuel pressure. The fuel has been treated with anti-gel, so I’m not aware of any gelling, although I suppose that it’s possible.



Should I be concerned? Replace the lift pump now, wait awhile and monitor it, or is this situation normal in very cold temps?



And if it does require replacement, who should I take it to in the KC-MO area? I am guessing that Dodge will cover this under the warranty. Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[KTobin]

I mean no disrespect for BD's low pressure LED. But lets face it, an idiot lite is an idiot lite! By the time you see it, you're into the danger zone. Granted, they are an inexpensive $30-$40 item but the only way to effectively monitor and troubleshoot the fuel systems on these 24 valve cummins, is with a quality mechanical or electrical guage. You have no way of telling what your idle/WOT pressures are, or the roll they play on a cold fuel. Invest in a troubleshooting tool (guage) and be warned well before your idiot lite tells you that fuel system is in it's death throes.



Kevin



After your LED lite goes out, if you were to hit the throttle hard under load, does it cause the LED to re- lite? You did mention that you were running an adequate amount of anti-gel right?

 

[Troubleshooter]

I mean no disrespect for BD's low pressure LED. But lets face it, an idiot lite is an idiot lite!



After your LED lite goes out, if you were to hit the throttle hard under load, does it cause the LED to re- lite? You did mention that you were running an adequate amount of anti-gel right?

No, the LED does not come back on when I hit the throttle hard. Once it goes off, it stays off until the next start cycle (self-check) and upon starting if it's really cold outside.



Comment regarding the LED is noted, but there's not much that I can do about it for another month or so.

 

[KTobin]

Sure, your self check is normal! If you've changed your fuel filter in a timely manner, and run an anti-gel, as you state, then I'd keep a real close eye on it until you have your guage installed. Stock lift pumps die slow and they die fast I've watched 3 die, each with their own personality. I've even run brand new pushers to aid a brand new lift pump only to come to the sad realization that it matters not, how much money I throw at that inadequate fuel delivery system, If it involves the Carter pumps, you will loose. If, when you install your guage, and find your pressures weak, learn by our mistakes. Forget the DC in tank band aid, forget the stock Lift pump and cut to the chase, buy a high quality frame rail mounted pump, as many here have done, and save yourself the grief.



Kevin