Fuel problem

Tiny
TOYOTA FAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1989 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 100,000 MILES
The car turns on, but turns off after 5-10 seconds I’m not sure if it’s the fuel pump. How can I find out?
Monday, January 27th, 2020 AT 1:17 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
Hi,

Does the engine start right back up?

What really needs done is simple. You need to check fuel pressure. If the pressure drops off when it stalls, then it sounds like the pump. However, if pressure doesn't drop, it is most likely ignition related. There is a pick up coil in the distributor that functions as a crankshaft position sensor. It too can cause the engine to stall.

Start with checking fuel pressure. You will need a gauge. Most parts stores will lend it to you. Watch the pressure until the engine stalls. Does pressure drop?

Here is a link that shows in general how to test fuel pressure:

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

Here are directions for testing fuel pressure specific to your vehicle. The attached pics correlate with the directions, and the fuel pressure specifications are included as well.

_____________________________________________

1989 Toyota Camry Sedan 2WD L4-2.0L (3S-FE)
Fuel Pressure Test
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Fuel Pressure Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Fuel Pressure Test
FUEL PRESSURE TEST
FUEL PUMP QUICK CHECK:

1. Check that battery voltage is at least 12 volts.
2. Turn on the ignition switch.
3. Using a service wire, short terminals +B and FP on the engine check connector. The fuel pump should operate.
Shorting Fuel Pump Test Terminals

Pic 1

4. Feel the fuel hose coming from the fuel filter to the fuel rail. The fuel flow should be felt, if the fuel pump is operating.
EFI Fuel Filter

pic 2

5. If not, perform pressure test below.
6. If fuel flow is felt, fuel pump operation is indicated, although fuel pressure may not be correct. For an accurate diagnosis, perform pressure test.

FUEL PRESSURE TEST:

1. Check that battery voltage is at least 12 volts.
2. Disconnect battery negative terminal.
3. Remove fuel delivery pipe between Cold Start Injector and fuel rail. Use caution if the fuel system is still under pressure.
Disconnecting Cold Start Injector Delivery Pipe

pic 3

4. Connect a suitable fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail using the union bolt and gaskets to provide a tight seal.
Connecting Fuel Pressure Gauge

pic 4

5. Wipe off any gasoline that may have escaped when the fuel pipe was disconnected and reconnect negative battery terminal. Turn on the ignition switch.
6. Using a service wire, short terminals +B and FP on the engine check connector. The fuel pump should operate and cause the pressure gauge to deflect.
Shorting Fuel Pump Test Terminals
imageOpen In New TabZoom/Print

FUEL PRESSURE: 38 - 44 PSI (265 - 304 kPa)

7. If pressure is low, check fuel pump output and/or fuel filter for restrictions. If pressure is high, refer to FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR/FUEL RAIL and test components.
8. If there is zero fuel pressure, check fusible links, fuses (EFI 15A, IGN 7.5A), EFI Main Relay and circuit wiring. Refer to CHASSIS ELECTRICAL DIAGRAMS for circuit schematics.
9. If no problem is found with the above components, go to the gas tank and listen for sound from the electric fuel pump.
10.If sound is heard, confirm that there is fuel in the tank.
11.If no sound is heard, remove the fuel pump from the tank, (refer to COMPONENT REPLACEMENT AND REPAIR PROCEDURES), and bench test the fuel pump with battery current.
12.If fuel pump does not operate, replace the fuel pump.
13.After repairs are made, remove all test equipment from engine, start engine and check for fuel leaks.

______________________

Do this and let me know the results. If you have other questions, feel free to ask.

Take care,
Joe
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Monday, January 27th, 2020 AT 6:55 PM

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