Starting issues

105,000 MILES • 4.3L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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PDW
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  • 7 POSTS
It wont start when the dew point is high, so I changed the distributor cap and rotor and it started that day, but the following day it wouldn't start again. I have also noticed i am getting fuel in my engine oil, it has been changed twice in the past 2 months because it's foamy. the shop changed it the second time and said there is definitely gas in the oil. I fear I have major issues but can't put a finger on it. I know it has spark and fuel but I'm lost.I also noticed after I changed the distributor cap and rotor button it started like i said earlier but when I drove it, it felt like it was missing when driving in normal conditions and especially when I pull a hill. Something really strange going on. It didn't start yesterday but could start today, it's hit or miss. I don't have any check engine lights on either. Please help ...
Feb 5, 2020 at 9:52 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good morning,

You have the classic signs of a bad fuel pressure regulator in the fuel spider under the upper intake. That was a very common issue back in the day. It would explain the foaming of the oil as well.

It would also explain the starting issues as well as the fuel is draining off the rail and not supplying enough fuel to the injectors.

I would replace the spider assembly. I attached a picture of the part and you can get it at rock auto.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F70MTZIS_Fk

Roy
Jan 29, 2021 at 3:46 AM
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PDW
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Thank you sir. I will be on this soon. Finally getting some answers now.
Jan 29, 2021 at 3:46 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Roy
Jan 29, 2021 at 3:46 AM
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PDW
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Is this something I could do myself? Never mind, I just watched the video, there is no way I can do that myself...
Jan 29, 2021 at 3:46 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
You could but I do not know your abilities. It is not easy and there is a lot to remove to gain access to the spider assembly. The YouTube video shows the procedure but not all of it. They lack the reality of the issues you face when you do it for the first time.

Roy
Jan 29, 2021 at 3:46 AM
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