1998 Chevrolet Truck Won't Start

1998 CHEVROLET TRUCK
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JAMIENDAVE2006
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have had this car for about 4 years with a miriad of minor problems, but this one is a biggie. I had the computer replaced a little less then a year ago. In june, the car wouldn't start. I took it to a mechanic who got it started... part of the time. He stated that there must be a problem in the theft system. the car sounds like it wants to start, but when you turn the key, the fuel pump won't start, which is preventing the engine from turning over. It started occasionally, but now won't start at all. the only theft system in the car is the one they put in, but there is no chip in the key. help!
Dec 20, 2006 at 5:08 AM
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SQM
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

A fuel pump can be inoperative due to a bad relay, wiring harness or the pump itself.
First check the relay.
The fuel pump relay is located in the fuse block under the hood (see diagram).
Check the relay for any corrosion or burnt pins.
You can also test the relay:

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

If the relay is good. Then check to see if you are getting power to the fuel pump connector. If there is no power with the key on then you have a faulty wiring. Possibly a short in the harness.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

If there is power to that connector, then it is likely a bad fuel pump. In order to replace the pump you will have to drop the fuel tank.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-electric-fuel-pump

I have attached the diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
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Sep 17, 2021 at 1:01 PM
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Suggested Repair

Check the underhood fuel pump relay for corrosion or burnt pins and test the relay. If it is good, check for power at the fuel pump connector with the key on. No power points to faulty wiring or a short; power with no pump operation indicates a bad fuel pump, which requires dropping the fuel tank to replace.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Chevrolet truck said it would not start after a computer replacement less than a year earlier. A mechanic suspected the theft system. The owner reported that the fuel pump does not run when the key is turned, so the engine will not start, and that the truck has no key chip. The expert advised checking the fuel pump relay in the underhood fuse block, then power and wiring at the pump connector, and replacing the pump if power is present.

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