Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Suspicion vp44 failure

[DThibault]

I have a 2001 HO truck and was having intermittent low fuel pressure. I replaced the transfer pump with a DDRP and now am getting over 20 psi. I drove the truck into the shop and now can't drive it out. I can get it started with difficulty if I bleed the injectors ( it stumbles and complains) but if I shut it down, it will not start again. The odometer gives a code of ECM, that's fairly vague. I have 140,000 miles on it, have replaced 3 stock transfer pumps, and may have abused the VP44 in the process. I hate to start throwing parts at it but I don't know how to diagnose this problem, ANy help is appreciated.

 

[Tinman]

Too much fuel pressure???

 

[blacksheepdiesel]

When you bleed the injectors are you getting fuel only or fuel with bubbles in it? If you have bubbles then air is getting into the system somehow. Find and fix that and your hard start should be cured.

Also, does the lift pump run for a few seconds if you cycle the key to "start" and then back to "run" without starting the engine?

Godspeed,
Trent

 

[JLandry]

The odometer gives a code of ECM, that's fairly vague.

Get yourself a real code scanner available from Wal-Mart or any auto parts store and check for DTC's (Diagnostic Trouble Codes). There might be something there which would be helpful in diagnosing the problem.



With that many miles and past history, there's indeed a very real possibility the VP44 has simply failed. Sometimes they suddenly quit working without setting a single DTC.



Good luck,



John L.

 

[Beast2B]

see if a local member has a Smarty, great for checking and clearing codes. if you need an ECM shoot me a PM. I have a spare from the days of my Catcher that I would be willing to sell.

 

[DThibault]

Thanks for the suggestions, with your help and guidance from Chip at Blue Chip I got it running. Yes, I had too much fuel pressure and trimmed the spring on the DDRP and I did have a small air leak on the stupid "quick" connect before the transfer pump> Dodge didn't have any seals to put in there so I found some O rings that would work in a local hydraulic shop. Once everything was satisfied and I bled it she started. FASS should get the pressures right before the pump leaves the shop, that way I wouldn't have to take it out three times to adjust the springs, otherwise seems like a good pump. I get12 - 15 pounds even at WOT. Thanks again.