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1997 Pontiac Sunfire 97 Pontiac Sunfire 2.2L Stalling and R

Tiny
SEAMUSZ
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 PONTIAC SUNFIRE
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 150,000 MILES
About a month ago, I ran out of gas on my way to work. Ever since then, when my tank is below 3/4-1/2 full, I have sporadic rough running and even stalling. It is usually the worst when I first start up. If the car actually stalls and quits, I have to let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes and then it will usually run fine for 10 to 20 minutes. If I keep the tank above 3/4 a tank full, I have no problems. The engine light has come on a couple of times and the error reads "running lean". I have tried some of the suggestions I have read for similar problems. I cleaned the throttle plate, I have replaced the fuel filter and checked the tank for gunk or clogged screen. As far as I can tell, everything has looked fine. I haven't had the pump itself checked and am trying to hold off going into the shop. Any suggestions?
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Monday, December 1st, 2008 AT 10:51 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
F4I_GUY
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,302 POSTS
That running lean code is a good indication that you may have a faulty fuel pump. Hook up a fuel pressure gauge and check the pressure when the car is acting up! It's pointless to check it when the car is running fine. So when you have half a tank of gas, hook up the gauge and compare the reading to spec.

If you don't have a gauge, then unforunately it's time to either buy one that will work, or bring it to an automotive shop.
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Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008 AT 6:12 PM

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