Fuel pump issue

SJCOMMUNICATOR

MEMBER
1991 HONDA PRELUDE
2.1L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
165,000 MILES

Hi,

So my "project" car has been sitting for a while, I finally got the time and resources to start my rehab. It had been a month since I started it. My battery was drained so I replaced it. Engine would turn over strong but not fire. I gave it a small shot of starting fluid and she wanted to fire. Fuel is relatively fresh "Non-Ethanol" treated with Startron. Replaced fuel filter still no start. Find blown 10A fuse (drivers side dash) for fuel pump, replace fuse almost fired up. No fuel or pressure at new fuel filter. Replace fuel pump vroom! Fired right up! Check for leaks all good. Let it run for a bit and shut it off. Go out two days later (got busy at work) and it is back to just turning over and not starting. I checked the fuse and fuse is good. I need help through the woods on this one as it is very frustrating. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
sjcomm

1 Reply

HARRY P

MECHANIC
2,291 POSTS

Either try the starting fluid again or borrow a fuel pressure tester from AutoZone and run a pressure test. If pressure is low, then you probably got a dud of a fuel pump and have to replace it. If the pressure is good, or if the car does not want to start with the starting fluid, then maybe you are not getting spark now.

Here's a guide on testing fuel pressure: https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

With the engine idling, the car should put out 28-35 psi of fuel pressure. With the key on, engine off, it should produce even more pressure than that. Maybe up to 45psi (Honda does not specify, but it should be higher than idling pressure).