Hard start issue?

GREG MUZIANI

MEMBER
2014 DODGE CHARGER
3.6L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
164,000 MILES

I’m experiencing hard starts after my car sits for a while. I would like to perform a fuel pressure test, but I’m not sure how to do it. My car doesn’t have a Schrader valve. It also has a P0420 catalytic converter code. Can this be causing my hard start issue? I would still like to perform a fuel pressure test to rule that out. I just recently changed out my fuel pump and sending unit, albeit with used ones. How do I go about the fuel pressure test? Is there an adapter that I can put between the fuel rail and fuel line, and if so, where do I find that adapter?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

The fuel pressure tester is attached between the supply hose and the fuel rail. Here is the thing, Chrysler recommends Chrysler tool number 8978A to check the pressure, but trust me, you don't want to purchase one.

I attached a pic of the kit below that I found online at Freedom Racing. The price is there as well. Please sit down before you see the price. LOL

So, here is what I suggest: Contact a parts store and ask if they have a fuel pressure kit that will work with your vehicle. Most stores will lend them to you.

Next, the directions indicate using a scan tool to actuate the fuel pump. I suspect it would be fine that once you get the gauge attached, you can turn the key to the run position (engine off) to pressurize the system.

Here is a link that explains in general how the procedure is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

If you look below, I attached the directions from my manual.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below. Pic 1 shows the adapters for connection and pic 2 is the kit. The last two pics are the directions.

Images (Click to make bigger)