Starting issue

[scott0303]

Guys I am stumped. I have a 99 Sierra 5.3. About a year and a half ago I started having an issue with the truck starting. Starter turns over fine everytime. Truck runs fine when it is running. Changed fuel filter last year. When I get in to start it up, usually takes at least 2 attempts before it fires. Starter always works. Ive tried varying ideas on turning the key without starting, turning it back and trying them to start it. Cant really find any pattern although that method does seem to help. One thing I have noticed with the recent heat is that after driving, it takes 4 or 5 times to get it to fire up. Almost like vapor lock. The cooler the quicker it turns over sometimes even the first crank. Never smell gas. Took it to the shop that usually does my work and they said bring it back when it wont ever start. That has been at least a year and a half ago. Could the fuel pump be going bad for that long and still not fail?? I mean I drive this truck everyday and a lot. Surely it would have failed by now. Im stumped

[bossier62guy]

I'd check the fuel pressure

[scott0303]

if its a pressure issue, would that lean toward the pump being bad?

[bossier62guy]

if its a pressure issue, would that lean toward the pump being bad?

 

[bossier62guy]

Possibly but it could be the regulator as well.....do a search for fuel pressure regulator.....it's smple to check it.

[scott0303]

Looks like it isnt my regulator. Saw no evidence of gas when I pulled the vacuum line off.

[ChevyTech77]

Pump. Check the pressure.

[Nate1958]

Had same problem with my 2000 silverado 5.3L, also lately the fuel gauge started to act up too. I just replaced my fuel pump this week, cause of the hard start was a small crack on the plastic hose on the fuel pump assembly, hose rubbing on steel rod over a period of 12 years. On the fuel gauge, the fuel sender unit on the fuel pump one of the contacts broke off. Replace with a brand new unit from ACdelco MU1613 code TCF. Stick with O.E the newer pumps have all of the fixes and upgrades.

 

Good luck,

 

nate2000