Engine suddenly stalls

Tiny
JOSEPH MILLER2
  • MEMBER
  • 1993 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
  • 175,000 MILES
Recently changed out distributor, wires and plugs now my truck will run for twenty minutes and stalls. It will not start again for hours then starts and repeats the stall.
Monday, May 7th, 2018 AT 10:26 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,779 POSTS
Hi Joseph and thanks for using 2CarPros.com. To reduce the number of possible problems, you need to check if the engine looses spark or fuel when it stalls and refuses to restart.

Here are general directions for checking to see if the vehicle has spark:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Additionally, you should check fuel pump pressure to make sure it stays within the manufacturer's specs. Here are the directions specific to your vehicle from alldata. You will need a fuel pressure gauge to check. However, most parts stores will lend them to you. The fuel pressure with the ignition on and engine off should be 62-90 kPa (9-13 psi)

Turn engine OFF to relieve system pressure.
Disconnect negative battery terminal to avoid possible fuel discharge if an accidental attempt is made to start the engine.
Loosen fuel filler cap to relieve tank vapor pressure.
The constant bleed feature relieves fuel pump system pressure when the engine is turned "OFF".
Uncouple fuel supply flexible hose in engine compartment. Install fuel pressure gauge between steel line and flexible hose.
Tighten gauge in line to insure no leaks occur during testing.
Connect negative battery terminal and START engine and observe fuel pressure reading. It should be 62-90 kPa (9-13 psi). If not, refer to DIAGNOSTIC CHARTS/FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST (CHART A-6).
Turn engine OFF to relieve system pressure.
Disconnect negative battery terminal to avoid possible fuel discharge if an accidental attempt is made to start the engine.
Loosen fuel filler cap to relieve tank vapor pressure.
Remove fuel pressure gauge.
Install new O-ring on fuel feed line. Reinstall fuel line.
Connect negative battery terminal and START engine and check for fuel leaks.
Install air cleaner assembly.

Here is a video to give you an idea on how to check pressure as well as the fuel pressure regulator.

https://youtu.be/peh7-pFycyc

I have attached a picture of a fuel pressure gauge that will be needed.

I am confident that one of the aforementioned items will be missing (spark or fuel). Once you determine which it is, then you can focus on that specific system.
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Tuesday, May 8th, 2018 AT 6:38 PM

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