Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Starting Problem

[proskeeterman]

Ok so this all started about 2 weeks ago. Came out to start truck and it didn't fire right away like usual. Put pedal down about 1/4 and tried again, still wouldn't start. Having had this problem about 7 yrs ago, I immediately looked under the truck for a fuel leak (last time I replaced the fuel lines). No leak under the truck. I check fuel solenoid (which was replaced about a year ago), it was ok. Tried to start it again and after a bit it fired.



Changed out the fuel filter the next day and while priming it with the button, I notice it began to leak fuel from the prime button off the lift pump. Truck ran fine for two days then once again I had a hard time starting it. I figured it may be the lift pump, so I ordered one to replace the original (220,000 miles on it). I went on vacay for ten days and when I returned I figured it would cause me grief once again. Much to my surprise, it fired rght off.



So now I'm really confused. I think I should just go ahead and swap out the lift pump any way and take it from there. But I'm concerned I'm missing yet another problem. I welcome any and all comments and advice ya'll can give. Oh BTW, there are no fuels leaks that I can see left on the ground. Just the prime button and only when it's pushed in. My thanks to all that respond.

 

[hsmith]

Sure sounds like the classic air leak problem. Fuel leaking at the primer may be your culprit but don't overlook the heater. I would eliminate it at the same time as replacing the pump. I remember reading that the primer leak can be an oring repair though.

Good luck.

 

[surfbeetle]

Check the Fuel Shutoff Solenoid FUEL SHUTOFF SOLENOID ('94-'98,12V)-Dodge Cummins Diesel Truck Accessories – Geno’s Garage and the relay for it. When it is not pulling up all of the way, it will cause intermittent hard starts. I had the same issues a few months back. I initially thought that it was the fuel line losing its prime and also suspected the lift pump. Turns out my FSS was worn out and the relay also need replacing.

 

[K.L.Schumacher]

I had some problems starting my 96 12 valve early this year and traced it to the shutdown linkage. Lubricated it and its been fine for months.

 

[MLee]

Good suggestions all-- another one to try , would be to push up the solenoid, with key on and then try to start.

If batteries are down theres not enough power to rise the solenoid, so you get a hard start or no start.

This would give you an area to start to look for your problem.