Hard to start

If you feel confident the rail isn't leaking, then I agree with you. I would start with the fuel filter and then the regulator. A bad check valve in the pump will leak down slower.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

I don't blame you for wanting to do it all in one time. They are not too much fun to remove and replace. Just try to run as much gas out of it as you can so the tank is lighter.

Hell, on the second generation Dakota, I was able to remove the bed (easier access) to access the pump in 20 minutes, as long as I had someone to help lift it off, but the full size don't go that fast. Let me know.

Joe

I am not a diesel guy but I looked up the code for you hope that help

DTC P0216: FUEL INJECTION PUMP TIMING FAILURE (DIESEL)
NOTE:DTC P0216: FUEL INJECTION PUMP TIMING FAILURE is monitored with ignition on. DTC may be stored in Engine Control Module (ECM) when ECM senses engine speed more than 300 RPM, and fuel command and timing control within predetermined parameters. Possible causes are: defective fuel injection pump, fuel injection pump gear not properly aligned, restricted fuel filter, restricted transfer pump inlet line.

Turn ignition on, with engine off. Using scan tool, read DTCs. If DTC SPECIFIC GOOD TRIP COUNTER displayed count is "0", go to step 3). If DTC SPECIFIC GOOD TRIP COUNTER count is not "0", go to next step.

Ensure engine is on, with engine off. Using scan tool, read and record FREEZE FRAME data. Road test vehicle under conditions in FREEZE FRAME data. Using scan tool, read DTCs. If DTC SPECIFIC GOOD TRIP COUNTER displayed count changes to "0", go to next step. If DTC SPECIFIC GOOD TRIP COUNTER displayed count does not change to "0", test is complete.

Using scan tool, read CALIBRATION DTCs. If DTC P0336: CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR SIGNAL, DTC P1287: FUEL INJ PUMP CONTROL SUPPLY VOLTAGE TOO LOW) or DTC P1690: FUEL INJECTION PUMP CKP SENSOR DOES NOT AGREE WITH ECM CKP is present, perform DTC P0336: CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR SIGNAL, DTC P1287: FUEL INJ PUMP CONTROL SUPPLY VOLTAGE TOO LOW, or DTC P1690: FUEL INJECTION PUMP CKP SENSOR DOES NOT AGREE WITH ECM CKP test. If DTCs are not present, go to next step.

Ensure ignition is off. Check fuel injection pump gear for proper alignment. Align fuel injection pump gear as necessary. Perform TEST VER-5A (DIESEL). If fuel injection pump gear is properly aligned, go to next step.

Ensure ignition is off. Install fuel pressure Test Fittings (AVU1-2) to fuel filter/water separator inlet and outlet ports.
Install Fuel Pressure Gauge (6828) to test fitting at inlet port. Start engine and allow it to idle. Record fuel pressure. Fuel pressure should be 10 psi (.69 kg/cm2 ) or more. Turn ignition off. Remove fuel pressure gauge from inlet port, and install on outlet port. Start engine and allow it to idle. Record fuel pressure. Fuel pressure at outlet port should be no more than 5 psi (.35 kg/cm2 ) less than inlet port pressure. If fuel pressure is not as specified, replace fuel filter/water separator.
If fuel pressure is as specified, go to next step.

Turn ignition off. Check fuel transfer pump fuel supply line for restrictions.
Repair restriction in fuel supply line as necessary. Perform TEST VER-5A (DIESEL). If no restrictions exist, go to next step.
At this time, fuel injection pump is assumed to be defective. Replace fuel injection pump
good luck

Hi:
I'm sorry it took a few days to get back with you. I just got out of the hospital with one of the worst flus I ever had.

I'm glad it's fixed. And you're right, the fuel pressure was leaking back to the tank. If you have any questions in the future, let us know.

Joe

With that mileage, I wouldn't think compression. Has the check engine light ever come on?

WHen you checked the fuel pressure, did the pressure drop off quickly when the key was off?

Check the actual fuel pressure this will tell you something what's going on within the fuel system.

Won't hurt to check the coolant temperature sensor and fuel pressure regulator/clogged return line

Hi:
Running the pressure should be between 44psi and 54psi. So, yours is perfect.

Ok. We have good spark, and now we know the fuel pressure is good. What else. Check the egr to make sure there are no vacuum leaks and the valve is operatring properly (not stuck and seating) Next check for vacuum leaks. Check around intake, look for broken or damaged hoses. Have you ever checked the catylatic converter to see if it is plugging? Even though the check engine light isn't on, have you tried to scan for codes?

Let me know.

Joe

We all miss something. Heck, when you said you had good spark, I assumed they were new, and we know what happens when we assume.

Take care, and if you have questions in the future, let us know.

Joe