Probably Just Another Fuel Pump

[Yardstick]

I have a 2001 Silverado, extended cab short bed with 4.8L V8. I have been having trouble starting it such that it takes up to three times back and forth between "run" and "off" before the truck will fire up. It runs great otherwise. The idle is very smooth (lowest I've ever seen in a vehicle ~500rpm!) and it seems to have plenty of power. I was finally able to put a fuel pressure gauge on the fitting and I read 10psi with the first cycle to "run", ~35psi with the second cycle and ~50psi with the third. The pressure dropped off very rapidly and finally settled at ~15psi. I did not try starting the engine that time. The vacuum line to the fuel pressure regulator is dry. Is the problem likely the fuel pump? Is there anything else it could be? I have not seen the check engine light on so I have not been in a hurry to buy a code reader/scanner. Would it give me any more clues? With all the problems that have happened with fuel pumps on these trucks, is there some particular part that is failing that I can replace so that it will be less likely to fail in the future?

 

P.S. I recently replaced the fuel filter. It actually seemed to make the problem worse.

[asilverblazer]

Sounds more like a regulator doing to much regulating. (Letting too much fuel pass and go back to the tank.) I'd rather replace that, than the pump too.

[asilverblazer]

It ended up being a fuel pump. Thanks for the help.

[Yardstick]

Was yours having the same problem? I'm going to replace the fuel pump, but since the truck is running so well I'm not going to be in a big hurrt. I should have my new pump in the next couple of weeks.