1999 Mercury Station Wagon Repair Question
Mileage: 70,000 miles.
Sable wagon starting problem
Answer
I recommend that you check fuel pump pressure. It sounds like you have a weak pump or the pressure bleeds off.
Thanks I did check pressure before and after filter change..no difference. Is there a check valve that is accessible or is it in the tank with the pump?
There is one on the fuel pump in the tank.
Rats! I really didn't want to drop the tank. Can I leave a fuel pressure guage on the car running and then turn ignition off and wait a while to see if pressure drops off significantly?
Yes, that is what you need to do. It is called fuel pressure drop off. When you shut the key, it should maintain pressure for a while. If you go to our homepage under the DIY section, there is a video and detailed directions for checking pressure and drop off. Check it out. It should be helpful.