1997 gmc sierra shuts off while driving

is it an ignition [loss of spark] =fuel issue [fuel pump--filter] scan vehicle for codes active or pending ---usually fuel pump--cat converter--short in wiring dont pull a code --

Clogged fuel filter / clogged injectors / dirty air filter.
Fuel pump could be going bad.
Loose ground somewhere.
I have a 2000 GMC Sierra. I have replaced the ignition switch (its more of a harness than a switch).
If you have a check engine light on, this will help diagnose the problem. If you do not have one, then it is most likely a mechanical issue like a bad fuel pump or a loose ground someplace.
Things to note:
How long does it run before it shuts down? If its the same amount of time each episode, then it could be related to temperature.
Do you have any leaks? Check your fluids and make sure there are no leaks. These trucks have many safety features built into them that are dependent on fluid levels.
Any blown fuses?
When is the last time you changed the air filter, the fuel filter or the spark plugs?
Air filter should be changed / cleaned if you have a reusable one every other oil change.
Fuel filter should be changed every 30,000 miles (I may be wrong on the mileage, but if you do not remember when it was changed, I would change it. With the age of the vehicle this is more of a factor - even if the truck has low miles on it.)
Spark plugs are expensive but only need to be changed every 100,000 miles. Given the age of the vehicle, I would guess you are not the original owner and without knowing when they were last changed, it might be a good idea to "start over" with everything being new. These trucks will last forever if you take care of them. My Sierra has 217,000 miles on it and I just towed a full size truck 1500 miles with no issues. GOOD LUCK

Ignition control module maybe . After it shuts off will it start right away or after sitting for awhile ? What engine does the vehicle have ? 3.1 , 3.4 l V-6 When it shuts off pull plug wires off the same coil an have someone try to start the vehicle . Do you see a spark jump from one coil tower to the other ?

You might check for a fuel shut off valve. Some vehicles have them in case of an accident, it turns off the fuel pump. Some are just a relay that can be reset.

Check to make sure oil pressure switch is not sticking or gummed up and connections are tight. Your oil pressure switch is also a safety feature that will shut down fuel pump in case you're in an accident and/or rollover.

you need to check this when it does not start , spark ? and fuel pressure ? most likely its spark ignition module or distributor pickup coil hope this helps

you either got water in the filters or in the tank! also could be a vacumn leak and or a weak primary pump in the tanks

I had to replace the mass air flow sensor. $ 150. the engine would shut off when driving too.changed fuel filter only worked for a day. The sensor is just after air filter.

I really dont think its the ignition module.Those are a little expensive so i wouldnt buy one until you sure thats the problem.I would turn the key to the on position and listen for the fuel pump.The pump only runs for about 3-5 secs when you first do it.If you dont hear anything thats the ploblem.If you can hear the pump come on try to use starting fluid to get it started.If it starts and runs fine then the fuel pump doesnt put out enough pressure to start the truck and need to be replaced.If that doesn t work take a spark plug out of the motor and plug it back into the wire.When you try to start the truck it should make a bright blue spark.If the spark is not bright and fast it could be many things like that plug or that wire all the plugs and wires or the distibutor cap or the rotor.It could also be the coil.If you have the money you should replace all of that stuff.If your on a budget like me I would change the distibutor cap and rotor and see if that help.If the plugs and wires are fairly new change the coil.You should do your plugs and wires after so many mile or time period.Im sure its not the Ignition control module.The guy at the part store always says that might be the problem and ive never bought one yet.My truck has 250,000 miles on it and still going.

On the drivers side frame rail (inside) is your fuel filter. Cheap to replace. But if you don't hear the pump cycling prior to attempting start it is more than likely pump in the tank. Check fuses first though. Big job