Engine sputters like it wants to go then dies?

Tiny
C._.SANTI
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
Hello! I have a 2000 suburban that will not start. It has a strong crank, sputters like it wants to go then dies. I can get it to start by hitting the gas at the same time but I must maintain 1k rpm before it wants to die again. At the 1k rpm engine seems to be running smooth. I do not know if this is helpful to know but I had just got done replacing spark plugs/cables and coils and took a couple mile drive. As soon as I pulled in the driveway it sputtered to a stop. Since this issue arrived I’ve put the original coils back on, changed the Idler air valve and MAF. The only time it has started since having this issue is the first time trying it after I replaced the idler air valve. It then idled at 1k and when I gently blipped the gas pedal it shot up to 3k for a few seconds and then came back down to 1k idle. Now it does not start and I’m back in the original position. Please help!
Friday, February 20th, 2026 AT 9:41 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 55,371 POSTS
Yep, it sounds like there is a vacuum leak or the GR valve is stuck open. Also are there any codes? here is a video on how to check for vacuum leaks and how to test the EGR valve.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRKWV4Are5c

The smoke machine is about 64.00 on ebay

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqUCbbKdWf4

and the EGR test is below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqUCbbKdWf4

Here is he location of the valve. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
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Saturday, February 21st, 2026 AT 5:45 PM
Tiny
C._.SANTI
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Yes! There was carbon pebbles blocking the plunger from closing all the way. No codes were given, thank you!
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Monday, February 23rd, 2026 AT 2:36 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 55,371 POSTS
Yep Yep!! Thanks for letting us know, we are here to help, please use 2CarPros anytime. Can you please leave us a rating?

https://g.page/r/CZdEnyCkGgm6EB0/review

and

https://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/2carpros.com

Thank you, Ken
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Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 AT 8:52 AM

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