Will not start after sitting three days?

Tiny
CHARLESTUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 CHEVROLET 1500
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
The truck listed above is a C1500. I have to use starting fluid to start my truck after it sits for several days. Once it starts, there is no problem for the next couple of days. I installed a new fuel pump and fuel filter a few months ago. Any ideas?
Tuesday, November 8th, 2022 AT 11:40 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,300 POSTS
Hi,

If you cycle the switch on and off a few times, will it start? Also, do you have a live data scanner? If you do, can you let me know if the signal is near the outside temperature?

Next, does the check engine light stay on when the engine is running? Have you checked for diagnostic trouble codes?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
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Tuesday, November 8th, 2022 AT 8:28 PM
Tiny
CHARLESTUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 59 POSTS
Nothing happens if I turn the switch on and off. It only starts with starter fluid. There is no code stored and there is no check engine light after it starts.
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Friday, November 11th, 2022 AT 2:37 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,300 POSTS
Hi,

If the pump is new and there is no change when you cycle the switch, the next thing I would be checking is if the engine coolant temperature sensor is sending an appropriate signal. If it starts when you use starting fluid, to me that indicates the fuel mixture is too lean which could be resulting from the ECT.

This is a theory at this point, but if you could check it, we may be surprised.

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, November 11th, 2022 AT 9:43 PM
Tiny
CHARLESTUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 59 POSTS
There is no code to indicate engine temperature issue. No codes.
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Saturday, November 26th, 2022 AT 12:12 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,300 POSTS
Hi,

The ECT can be sending an incorrect temperature signal, it won't set a code. The computer doesn't know if it is right or wrong. That is why it can trick you.

Do you have a live data scan tool? That is what is needed to check the signal.

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, November 26th, 2022 AT 8:37 PM
Tiny
CHARLESTUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 59 POSTS
I replaced the engine coolant temperature sensor and there has been no change. It's starting to sound like the fuel pump needs to be replaced. Can I add an inline fuel system check valve? What are your thoughts?
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Monday, December 12th, 2022 AT 6:15 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,300 POSTS
Hi,

There should be a Schrader valve already present on the vehicle. It will be on the return line from the injector.

If you look at the pic below, I circled what to look for. Also, here is a link that explains in general how to test pressure:

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

If you look a pic 2, it reviews the test and what to look for. It also provides the manufacturer's fuel pressure specifications.

You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you. And yes, I think this is a good idea. I do recommend performing it when the engine is cold, and the issue normally would happen.

Take care and let me know what I can do to help.

Joe

See pics below.
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Monday, December 12th, 2022 AT 8:31 PM

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