Fuel pump not working

BILL SHOTWELL

MEMBER
1996 CHEVROLET CAPRICE
4.3L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
190,000 MILES

Fuel pump problem I think. Do not hear it running. The gas gauge shot up to show a full tank when it only has a half. Sometimes it tries to start. Checked the connection as the gas tank for volts and it shows 8.2 volts. Is that enough to run it. Is it a relay? The fuse is good.

3 Replies

JOHNNYT73

MECHANIC
924 POSTS

Quickest way to check is to go to a parts store and rent a fuel pressure gauge. Check fuel pressure when the key is turned to the "on" position not "run" and see what your readings are. If no pressure then I would replace the pump.

Here is a link to an article from this site with step by step instructions and pictures explaining the process of checking the fuel system pressure, regulator and fuel pump in less than fifteen minutes:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

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Wednesday, June 24th, 2015 AT 1:00 PM

ELFONDU

MEMBER
1 POST

Looking at identical symptoms, on similar miles. What did it end up being, friend?

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Friday, August 17th, 2018 AT 10:01 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,513 POSTS

With only eight volts at the pump I would say its the connector at the pump or the relay. Here is a guide to help you test the relay and the location:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken

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