Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Turns over but won't start

[DWJoy]

Spins over normal but acts like not getting fuel. When I open the bottom of the fuel filter very little comes out. Could it be the selinoid.

 

[Cosmo]

Sounds more like a dead lift pump or empty fuel tank to me. Shut off solenoid should be fairly easy to check - does it actuate when you turn the key on and crank?

 

[moparguy]

Since this is the 12V section, the two most likely candidates are leaking fuel return line, or fuel solenoid relay. The first requires replacing the return line, second may be taken care of with a $5. 00 relay from Radio Shack (you can swap the two relays out on the firewall as a test). Could also be the fuel shutoff solenoid needs to be disassemblied and cleaned. Of course check (with a flashlight or trouble light which helps) to ensure all solenoid linkage is connected.

Tons of post on each of the likely culprits mentioned above, Search Is Your Friend! Most old time 12V members have fought and won this battle, just search.

Good luck, RR

 

[Cosmo]

When the return line is cracked, does the lift pump not still fill the filter housing, then send fuel to the injection pump, and then the overflow valve dump the excess fuel into the return line where it will leak?

If the shut off solenoid is not working - either due to a bad relay or the solenoid itself - does not the lift pump still fill the filter housing?

If his filter housing isn't getting fuel, I would think the culprit would be before the fuel filter housing - lift pump, supply line, or fuel supply itself. I suppose it could also be a worn cam as well, but you don't hear about that often.

 

[hsmith]

Have you pumped the primer to see if there is fuel? It should even with a cracked return line. No need to turn on the ignition either unless you are checking the solenoid. The solenoid has no effect on fuel getting to the injection pump, just through it. .

 

[surfbeetle]

If it's not the previously mentioned relay or the fuel line, check the fuel solenoid itself. The rubber boot can get gunked up and prevent the solenoid from moving up and down. Also it can just plain come apart. When you turn the key on, the solenoid is sucked up moving a lever that allows the fuel to flow. You can have someone attempt to start the truck while you manually pull the solenoid up. If it starts, then it's either your relay and or your solenoid. Make sure you are clear of any moving parts when you do this. The solenoid is on the driver's side of the engine towards the back of the compartment. When mine broke, I had to replace the relay and the solenoid. I ran around for a while with some coat hanger size wire to pull up and push down the solenoid lever while I waited for the part to ship.

 

[Missouri Mule]

No fuel in filter would be lift pump ,no fuel(infamous fuel sending unit) or cracked fuel lines. Cracked fuel lines can let air in without letting fuel out, which will kill the prime. Try priming it then try to start it. Also put 5 gallons of

diesel in tank.