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Starting Problem 98 Chevy Astro AWD 4300 Vortec
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CarsR
New User
Aug 20, 2009, 8:24 AM
Post #1 of 2
(3954 views)
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Starting Problem 98 Chevy Astro AWD 4300 Vortec
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I have been having starting problems. 130K mi. Fuel pump was replaced at 97K ago (a so called "lifetime" unit).
Anyhow, it will now only start if starting fluid is sprayed in the air filter. Once is starts it seems to run ok, does not stall on acceleration and will occacionally continue to start the rest of the day without starting fluid. I have used fuel system cleaner and dry gas and even tried premium gas without any change. The van has been getting harder to start for the past several weeks.
I have the original GM service manual, although I find the diagnostics confusing and sometimes lead me in circles. Here is what I do know!
Fuel Pump cycles ON when ignition in on position
comes ON again when ignition is turned off.
Just did a test and Fuel Pressure gauge reads steady at 40-42 PSI
(it calls for 60-66 PSI)
GM indicates to put a shut-off valve on the supply line and another test has one on the return line. I do not have one of these adapters to do the tests, any thoughts?
Do you believe it is weak Fuel Pump? or Are they usually 100% or just dead?
Could the problem be a faulty Pressure Regulator? (it is below the intake manifold, ugh)
Could it be a problem fuel filter? or a partially clogged pump strainer or fuel line?
I have not found any fuel leaks and no strong odor of fuel is coming from the engine that I can tell.
Thanks in advance for your help!!!
Additional info:
I believe that the mechanic my wife took the van to replaced the fuel pump, (although it quit in sub-zero temps a couple of years ago and I thought it might just be a fuel line freeze). Although I believe it is unrelated, six months ago I did a tune-up - New Plugs(platinum AC/Delco-they are horrible to change), Wires, PVC, Fuel Filter (it had not been changed in a very long time, but seemed clean, I use Techron fuel cleaner a couple of times a year). I think while I have the console out I will replace the Rotor, the DistCap looks ok.
(This post was edited by CarsR on Aug 20, 2009, 2:08 PM)
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Sidom
Veteran
/ Moderator
Aug 20, 2009, 9:05 AM
Post #2 of 2
(3950 views)
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Re: 98 Chevy Astro AWD 4300 Vortec Starting Problem
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Those systems need 50psi minium to start. They will run on less once started and that's why you are able to use starting fluid to start it. You should check with the shop that installed the pump and see if you have any type of warranty on it...........
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