Stalls then after a few minutes will start again?

BEEGEE55

MEMBER
2003 CHEVROLET TAHOE
5.7L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
280,000 MILES

This may be 2 separate issues but this started about a year ago. First issue is if my fuel gets below a half tank(usually between a half and 1/4 tank) and the truck sits idle for more then 6-8 hours it will not start until I add fuel. Usually enough to get it over the half tank mark. I was thinking a weak fuel pump but every fuel pump I'eve ever had either goes out or doesn't. Maybe limp it along by banging the tank for a while but eventually it dies. I'eve never heard of one doing this. Could this be the case? It isn't much of an issue anymore since I never let the truck drop below a half tank but it'd be nice to get it fixed.

Now the second and possibly related issue. My truck will stall and won't usually start again for a few minutes. This happens more often as the fuel level gets lower. It seldom does it on a full tank but it has a couple times. It definitely does it more often when the temperature is hotter outside and then usually takes longer before it will start again. Also some time it doesn't completely stall right away but instead it will lose all power and then eventually stall if I try to accelerate. If I feather the gas pedal I can keep it moving for a minute but then it will eventually die. Also there are times it stalls and I'ill pull over and it will start back up without delay. It seems like when it stalls and I try to restart it doesn't get fuel because when it finally starts again after a few minutes it literally pops right off as if there was no problem.

Any help or advice on this problem would be much appreciated. My budget is tight so I try to do what I can myself. Thanks again.

1 Reply

RACEFAN966

MECHANIC
5,029 POSTS

The issues you're experiencing with your 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe could indeed be related to the fuel system, particularly the fuel pump or its components. Let's address each problem separately:

Issue 1: Starting Difficulty Below Half Tank:

This problem might be related to a weak fuel pump or a faulty fuel level sending unit. When the fuel level drops below a certain point (in your case, around half to a quarter tank), the fuel pump might struggle to maintain adequate pressure, causing starting difficulties. The fuel level sending unit is responsible for providing the fuel gauge with accurate information about the fuel level in the tank. If it's malfunctioning, it might not correctly indicate the fuel level, leading to starting issues. To address this problem, consider:

Check the fuel pump's performance and fuel pressure when the tank is below half. A weak fuel pump might need to be replaced.

Inspect the fuel level sending unit for accuracy and replace it if necessary.
Inspect and clean the fuel tank and fuel system for any debris that might be affecting the fuel flow.

Issue 2: Stalling and Hard Starting:

The stalling and hard starting problem could indeed be related to the fuel system as well, especially considering it happens more often with a lower fuel level. Here are some steps to troubleshoot and address this issue:

Check the fuel pressure when the issue occurs. A weak fuel pump might not be able to maintain sufficient pressure to keep the engine running properly.
Inspect the fuel filter and replace it if it's clogged. A restricted fuel filter can cause fuel flow issues.

Check for any vacuum leaks in the intake system that might be affecting the air-fuel mixture.

Inspect the ignition system components, such as spark plugs and ignition coils, for any signs of wear or malfunction.

Check for any stored trouble codes in the engine control module (ECM) using an OBD-II scanner. These codes might provide additional clues to the issue.

If you're on a tight budget and want to do some of the diagnosis and repairs yourself, start with checking the fuel pressure and inspecting the fuel filter. These are relatively straightforward tasks that can provide valuable information about the health of the fuel system.