1997 GMC Sierra Will not start

SHAWNJA

MEMBER
1997 GMC SIERRA
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
13,400 MILES

I own a 1997 GMC Sierra 4x4. When I try to start it just turns over, if I try starter fluid it starts right up and I will not have a problem all day with it. It is sits over night I will not be able to start it.

Wednesday, October 6th, 2010 AT 11:34 AM

5 Replies

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

You need to get an accurate fuel pressure gauge and test the fuel pressure in the morning when your trying to start it. This engine requires a minimum of 55PSI to run. Any less and you will have to change the pump and filter.

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Wednesday, October 6th, 2010 AT 11:48 AM

SHAWNJA

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thanks for responding to my question about my truck not starting. I've used as feul pressure guage and it was reading 50-52psi. After it gets running it would go up to about 55psi, is it possible that it's the fuel pressure regulator that's causing the problem?

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Thursday, October 7th, 2010 AT 1:56 PM

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

Not likely but you can find out by pinching off the return line and see if the pressure spikes way up. If it doesn't, then change the pump and filter.

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Thursday, October 7th, 2010 AT 1:58 PM

SHAWNJA

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Just wondering if that is a common problem with this make and model? This would be the 3rd time i've had to replace the pump and i've owned the truck since 1998 and only has 134000 miles on it.

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Thursday, October 7th, 2010 AT 2:24 PM

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

Very common problem. If you use any brand other than Delco, it's even worse. Make sure you replace the harness along with it because they have a known problem with them causing early pump failure.