1998 Chevy Astro Longer than usual start up

ANOKAJAKS

MEMBER
1998 CHEVROLET ASTRO
6 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
141,000 MILES

I change oil every 3-4M miles and after last change, it seems to crank longer than before. Replaced air filter, fuel filter, and before I take off the "dog house" I would like to know exactly where the PCV valve is and also any tips on replacing the rotor + distributor cap.

2 Replies

TECHMAN1

MEMBER
82 POSTS

I think your fuel pump relay is bad. The fuel pump relay only primes the fuel system when you first turn the key on or off. It runs the fuel pump for about 5 seconds. This is the only thing and the only time the fuel pump relay operates. Do you hear the fuel pump run a few seconds when you turn the key on or off? You see, when you start the van, it is the oil pressure switch that runs the fuel pump constantly. So if your fuel pump relay is bad, you don't get the system pressurized with turning on the key, and then you crank the engine until the starter motor finally makes the oil pressure switch and then the engine starts. If you take the cover off the relay box just above your battery, the fuel pump relay and the air conditioner relay are identical and you can swap them for a simple test.

Good Luck,

Ken

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Thursday, October 16th, 2008 AT 9:30 PM

JASONRAY

MECHANIC
213 POSTS

You could also have a problem with the check valve in the fuel pump located in the tank. This check valve is designed to prevent fuel from draining back into the tank when you stop your engine. Try this: In the morning, before you even spin the motor over, just turn the key to the ON position and listen for the pump. It should run about 4 or 5 seconds, Just like techman1 said. If it runs, let it run til it stops. Turn the key off and wait 4 or 5 seconds. Turn it back on til the pump stops. Repeat this 2 or 3 times and then try to start it. If that is, in fact, the problem, this will PRIME the fuel system and get the fuel back up to the injectors. It should start right up. Now, if this works like I just described, replacing the fuel pump will correct the problem. Don't rule out what techman1 said, though. His solution is just as likely as mine.

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Friday, October 17th, 2008 AT 8:16 PM