hard start

kosb · February 7, 2005

I have a 2001 2500 hd with the 6.0 that I bought new ,it now has about 83k my problem is that hot or cold it only wants to start on the 3rd turn of the key. It will crank all 3 times but only turn over on the 3rd time .

71GMC_3/4T · February 7, 2005

Fuel pump probably going south.

Try a new fuel filter first.

Listen for the pump noise each time before you start it.

kosb · February 7, 2005

Fuel pump probably going south.
Try a new fuel filter first.

Listen for the pump noise each time before you start it.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Tried the fuel filter and that didnt do it . I cant hear the fuel pump

at all . The fuel pump was my first thought also is there a way to

test it? thanks

LiftedHDRado · February 7, 2005

Could it be the starter going bad?

kosb · February 7, 2005

Could it be the starter going bad?

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The starter seems strong , I think that its a fuel or a spark problem .

Scyry · February 7, 2005

I had the ignition go bad on my truck. Try pulling your key out of the ignition while running. If it comes out I would look into replacing that. I would have to turn the key several time before anything would happen. Nothing would light up on my dash.

71GMC_3/4T · February 7, 2005

Yeah, but he says the truck cranks over, just doesn't fire until the third try cranking it. I would assume he's only cranking it for a few seconds each time, which is best for the starter in my opinion. I fried the solenoid in my lawn tractor cranking on it for extended times.

You should be able to have your pump pressure tested at a mechanic. Even if it runs to get down to the mechanic, he should be able to tell you if your pressure is reasonable or not.

Something you might want to try next time you're sure it won't start on the first two cranks: Crawl under it with a rubber mallet and smack the bottom of the tank just prior and while someone is cranking it. This jars the fuel pump and will usually get it going.

Also, listen for pump noise both before it starts (or doesn't) and then after it starts, shut it off and turn it back to ON. Listen for the pump again. If it sounds different, that might be a clue.

Another thing that just popped into me widdle brain: I think these trucks have an oil sensor switch, so if the truck rolls over and the engine dies, it kills the fuel pump for safety. Could be your switch is going bad, or getting sluggish in responding when you first crank it. Worth looking into before you drop the tank and change out an otherwise perfectly good fuel pump! You should be able to figure out how the switch works and bypass it, assuming you can locate it...