1999 Chevrolet Silverado Damage from reversed polarity

Tiny
1968VEEDUB
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
  • 5.2L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 280,000 MILES
I recently connected jumper cables to a dead battery. In the dark I thought I knew which was pos/neg, obviosly I was wrong. Wound up with a significantly charged battery with reversed polarity. After reconnecting the battery, a number of random things would happen with no prompting, one of which was that the fuel pumps would run. After I realized my mistake, I decided to let it discharge completely, so I left it connected. (Reverse polarity)

A day and a new battery later, I hoped everything would be fine. Hooked up correctly this time, Engine cranked fine, but didn't start right up like it usually did. Thought it might be since the pumps were running in reverse for a while the fuel lines are empty, but couldn't hear the pumps turning like normal. I have no confusion about troubleshooting fuel pump issues on my own. My question is this: besides the obvious fuel pump issue, what other components did I likely damage/destroy with my reverse polarity stunt?

-Scott
Thursday, December 4th, 2014 AT 5:37 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
BLACKOP555
  • MECHANIC
  • 10,371 POSTS
It is possible that every electronic device on there could have been ruined but is unlikely. Check fuses first off to see if any blown or melted. Start by checking fuel pressure and then getting back if it is present.
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Thursday, December 4th, 2014 AT 6:19 PM

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