2001 GMC C3500 diesel motor won't start

ROGER OAKS

MEMBER
2001 GMC C3500
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
65,000 MILES

My original duramax batteries finally wore out, which made it not start. I bought new batteries, and it still turned over but wouldn't start. I took out the fuel filter and drained out water, cleaned and put back in. Then I primed and fuel was coming out priming screw. But still it will not start. Turns over but doesn't start. If the truck set for a couple-three days, the computer wouldn't allow the truck to move in gear until it reset itself. We thought maybe this computer is causing trouble with starting too. Thank you for your help. Trying to avoid a tow bill and hoping something I can do myself. Roger

1 Reply

DR LOOT

MECHANIC
2,311 POSTS

Roger, sorry for the late response, but I am new to this site, my advice to you is this: I know the fuel filters for the Duramax are expensive, but this is no time to cut corners, you should have replaced the filters instead of trying to clean it, those filters are very advanced technology, and the only thing you probably did was stir up the garbage, I suggest you replace the fuel filter, with a new one of course! Before installing the filter make sure you fill it full of diesel fuel, that will $ave wear and tear on the hands pump, (you are into saving money right?) Then open up the bleeder, pump the hand pump till fuels starts to come out, closed the bleeder valve and pump the hand pump till it becomes very hard, until you cannot push it down anymore, crank the truck for 2 (two) seconds no more! Get back out and the hand pump again until you cannot push it down anymore, repeat the process until the truck starts, if you have a helper with you (like your wife) have them crank the truck while you are manually pumping it as fast as you can until the truck starts