hard starting in 2000 5.3 L

mbalogh · September 12, 2003

Hey everyone -

I've done enough reading and talked to enough people to think that my hard starting is due to the same fuel pressure regulator problem that many people have been having. It starts fine for the first time during the day, then starts hard after that. But runs fine once it starts.

I located the regualtor and want to check the vacuum hose to see if fuel is leaking past, but don't know which is the vacuum hose. The pic below is what I think is the regulator. You're looking at the driver side of the engine, rear of the truck is to the right. Which hose is the one to check? And do I need a tool to bleed off the pressure in the system before changing the regulator? Much obliged!

~Mike

points · September 12, 2003

I just had to replace mine a week ago. You can buy though the dealer/AC Delco or buy a aftermarket part. The fuel pressure regulator is part with the clip on it. The AC Delco part came with a new clip. The clip is easy to take off just use a scewdriver to take it off. The fuel pressure regulator part will come off after the clip is removed. Sometimes one of the 0-rings get stuck it the housing. The new fuel pressure regulator should be easy to put in.... Dont force it.

Buy a service book, Its detailed to get the job done.

Good luck

points · September 12, 2003

I forgot....

The vacuum hose is the thin one just right of your arrow. If you pull up the vacuum hose and see gas coming out that means you need a new pressure regulator.

One more thing...

when you replace the pressure regulator... let the truck sit for a hour because if you dont gas will shot out the pressure regulator opening. Maybe you shoud bleed off the pressure anyhow.....

Butch 02 Denali · September 12, 2003

Pull the fuel pump fuse, then crank the engine for a few seconds. Pressure all gone!

Butch 02 Sierra Denali

marman · September 12, 2003

I replaced mine yesterday. Piece of cake. There is a shrader valve on the fuel line on the left side of the intake manifold that you can use to release fuel line pressure. Put a rag under the valve and under the regulator or gas will spay on and under the intake manifold. The GM part number is 17113678.

I want to thank all who have posted on this topic. You saved me lots of $$$. Eventhough I could have saved even more if I had bought at GMpartsdirect.com and waited for the part to be delivered. I'm pulling my 5th wheel this weekend and didn't want any problems.