1997 Chevy Cheyenne Fuel Pump goes out every 2-3 years

NOAH12

MEMBER
1997 CHEVROLET CHEYENNE
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

I don't see a section for fuel pumps so may have to pick something else. The past to owners replaced it 2 times, we are now replacing a 2nd time. I do wonder if it's the fuel pump but our mechanic is good and we know him well. What would make a fuel pump go out so often?? I was stranded today and had to tow it. I'm not happy! Love the truck though.

It's at the mechanics. He can't get to it right away, good! Time for you to help. I'm open to any questions. Need help soon! He tried a few things then whacked the tank and the truck started right up. He then said it's the fuel pump. Is it?? What's wrong? may I please have a check list for this problem? He did try a few things and came to the conclusion it's the pump.

When this wouldn't start and acted like it was getting no fuel we cleaned the relay box under the hood and it started right up. That was like 3-4 weeks ago and now it's doing it again. I just told my mechanic about that and he said he didn't think it was bad because it has power,worked or whatever he said. I'm tired. Anyway the one prong on that relay was burned abit. Cleaning it and the ground wire let the truck start.
Thankyou

6 Replies

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

When you turn the key to run do you hear the fuel pump? If so check the fuel pressure and comeback with the readings we start here.

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Friday, June 26th, 2009 AT 11:32 PM

NOAH12

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9 POSTS

Hello and Thankyou for the reply. I don't think I did hear the pump. The thing is IF the pump is needing replaced why would this happen every couple of years or so? I recall cars I had in the past that went almost lifetime without needing a fuel pump replaced.

Going to have the mechanic check all this. Will let you know about the pressure, etc.

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Saturday, June 27th, 2009 AT 7:50 AM

NOAH12

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Is it possible, if the pump needs replaced again, that it was caused buy running the tank low on gas now & then and sludge got in the pump? If he has to pull the tank he might as well clean it out well before replacing the pump right? Just grabbing at straws here. I need this truck and need to trust it.

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Saturday, June 27th, 2009 AT 8:11 AM

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

It does seem excessive to replace the fuel pump as often as you say. Just going to cover some basic stuff so you can make an informed decision, first, do you keep the tank mostly full or do you allow the tank to get empty. The fuel is the cooling agent for the pump and when the level is low, the pump MIGHT pick up air and IF it does it can overheat the pump. Second, what brand of replacement pump are you using? Some are better than others. And has the filter been changed? Also has the pressure been checked. Has the power and ground been checked, if the relay is suspect, replace it. Are there any restrictions in the fuel lines? Has the tank ever been deformed by an accident or from a high center? Just what comes to my mind mate, good luck with your vehicle � � �

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Saturday, June 27th, 2009 AT 10:08 AM

NOAH12

MEMBER
9 POSTS

Well do do know we have let the tank get abit low more than once. Bad I know but won't anymore.

Our mechanic only uses AC Delco pumps and parts. I'm pretty sure he does all he's suppose to as he's what I would call an expert. Just wanted to see if you guys had any additional information. Will check on those other things. Oh, the replay is being replaced today.