I have a 1989 Chevy K2500 w/ 350 Engine. The truck only has 74500 miles on it and has run strong since I bought it 5-6 months ago. I had only ever had the fuel level 1/4 to 1/2 way full. Yesterday after using it for some light work duty I drove it to the gas station, and FILLED the tank with 87 unleaded. I then drove it home where I parked it and it sat for about 7 hours. I started it up last night (started fine) after 10 seconds driving down the road the truck lost power (the ''service engine soon, & check gauges'' lights appeared), I pulled over, and attempted to restart the egine but it would not. When I engadge the ignition I can hear what sounds like the fuel pump (that light ''hmmmmmm'' noise does appear to be lasting longer than usual'' then I as I turn the ignition the engine just turns over and over like it's not getting any gas.
I don't believe it was bad gas. However I have a feeling it is related to having the fuel level at FULL, maybe the fuel pump can't pump. Anyways, any suggestions would be helpful, If I find an answer I'll post back. Thanks.
You need to check the fuel pressure to the TBI. I just fought one which was doing the same thing. I pulled the fuel tank to replace the fuel pump. It turned out to be the short hose from the fuel pump to the steel line coming out of the tank. It had a split in it so I wasn't getting enough fuel pressure. Some places show two pumps available. One you can pull the unit and replace just the pump. The other the pump and sender are all one unit. Hopefully you have the first one. The second is around $300.
The easiest way to get to the top of the tank is to pull the front 6 bolts mounting the bed and loosen the back two. Take the three screws from the filler neck and unhook the rear axle vent tube. You can then take an engine hoist and lift the front of the box. You can get right to the pump and gauge assemble in the top of the tank. Most times, this works easier than emptying the fuel tank and removing it.
Just to let you know the fuel presure for the TBI should be 9 to 13 pounds and the pressure for the SFI model will be 40 to 55 pounds. So make sure you know which one you have.
Pour some gas down the throttle body see if it runs. if it does you no its fuel problem remove fuel line at throttle body check flow should be a litre in 15 seconds then pressure something like 40psi check manuel for your specs sounds like fuel pump full tank is just coincidense
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Ok, I had to charge the battery because I turned it over so much I drained it. I just got done replacing the fuel filter. I shorted the diag pin and the ground pin, and received on error code "12" which I guess means it's all working right. Im in the midst of draining the tank to 1/2 full and giving it a go.
After charging the battery and replacing the fuel filter I started it up, it started up and immediatly shut off. I started it again and pumped the pedal, it would rev sluggishly but soon shut off. Im still trouble shooting.
The model is a 1989 Chevy C2500 w/ 350TBI, not K2500.
i have the same problem, fuel pump is good, relay is good, pressure is good, but for some reason the injectors wont pump fuel. the pcm isnt sending the signal to the injectors to open, or whatever tells the pcm to signal isnt telling the pcm. When i figure out what is the problem i will let you know.
Hey guys, OP here. So it ended up being the short hose running from the fuel pump to the intake line within the tank. (Exactly what was mentioned here). The easiest way I found to do this was to unscrew all 8 bolts (wd40, and an air wratchet helped) once unscrewed, I unscrewed the 3 screws holding on the gas door cap, uncliped the brake lights and had a friend and 2 family members help me lift the bed off and back about a foot, where it sat on the tire and bumper. I was then able to pull the fuel pump out and sure enough the hose had a bust in it. I noticed also the screen had a tear. So I went down to Make Model and Year and picked up a AC Delco fuel pump and screen($75 after tax). The fuel pump comes with the short hose which had busted, but this one it more heavy duty (we'll see after 20 more years though). Anyways, once I assembled that (very easy) and put her back together the engine started right up and ran without any problems.
I was told that it would be a good idea to replace the whole sending unit and the pump which was going to run about $300. However I had more opinions telling me that unless the sending unit was broken there was no need to for a new one. Luckily I was able to find a local parts dealer who carried AC Delco because that is the original part and I did not have to solder and heat shrink any connector (which I was told may have to be done on some aftermarket brands).
So thanks for your suggestions. I had 1 master mechanic assume it was the short hose that busted just from telling him what happened, and then the 1 post on here which found the same thing.. My guess is it realitivly common for this model/year. I hope this helps those in need.
Turns over, but will not start, fuel pump replaced 1 month ago.
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