Alright, I just got this car about 2 weeks ago. Since I've gotten it It's run really well, especially compared to my old Iroc! But it's always had this thing when I try to start it. It cranks fine, no starter problems or alternator or battery problems(my dad owns an alternator/starter shop ). It cranks over all you want it to the first time, but won't start. Then turn the ignition off, back on and will start instantly like nothing was wrong. Sometimes it will take until the third time, but once it feels like cranking it starts like a champ. Some have said maybe fuel pump, or maybe opti. I don't know if the opti is missing anywhere cause I haven't had it long enough to really hit on it a lot.

Is there any possible way this could be related to the VATS system in the ignition cylinder, that's not giving power to the coil because it's the wire has shorted out, but when I retry it, it works? Cause when it's warm it usually starts up fine right away, but not always. I don't have a clue, just thought maybe you guys would have a clue.

TIA,

Kyle

Sorry so long.

 

Before starting, try a burst of starting fluid. If it starts on the first try, then it is a fuel issue.... if it takes several times to start, then I'd check the electrical/ignition.

 

Your problem is fuel. Period. That's the easy part. The hard part is figuring out what exactly. First of all if the fuel pump relay is not pulling in. The oil pressure switch will pull in at 4 psi to power the fuel pump. This is one cause for a lot of cranking. On really cold days, you have to crank a lot before the oil pressure gets to 4 psi to pull the pump in. The easiest way to check for this is see what the pressure is with the key on but the engine off. The results will be obvious.

I don't think this is your problem. I believe your problem will be either a sticky injector, your fuel regulator has a hole in the diaphragm or the fuel pump check valve is sticking open.

If the diaphragm has a hole in it then there will be fuel in the vacuum hose connected to it. Also the pressure during operation will be high and you can check for that too.

The last 2 things left are hard to seperate. To check, put a fuel pressure gage on the schrader valve and see how long the pressure takes to bleed down.

Have the injectors cleaned professionally through the rails and then check the leak down rate of the fuel pressure again. If it is still doing the same thing the last thing left is the fuel pump.

Good luck

 

Some previous posts have suggested that this may very well be fuel related(fuel pump).But I would first change the gas filter(behind the drivers rear wheel,and change gas stations for a week or two).Hope this helps.

 

Defiently sounds like a fuel pump. Thats what mine did. Started perfectly on the 2nd try.

 

I'm going to try the fuel filter first, then check my pressure. My fuel pump went out on my Iroc, and even with my dad's shop(lifts, an array of tools, and my uncle to help) it took us a whole day just to replace it! I'm hoping it's not that but I'm scared that it is. I'll replace the filter then try to let you guys know. But keep the ideas coming, so far I've had a lot of help.

Thanks alot,

Kyle

PS - I've been getting gas at a different station everytime.

 

Yeah, from what I hear you'll need to drop the tank. A lift will make it somewhat easier (empty). I'm sure someone here has a diagram, pictures, procedure, etc...

A controversial way is to nibble a hole just above the tank in the trunk... but that isn't a popular idea even though it has been done.

 

Put a fuel pressure guage on it and turn the key on...see if it bleeds pressure.

Joe

 

You prolly have some gunk in your fuel filter. I did and was having the same problem. Just change it and see if that helps.

 

Fuel filter will be changed soon. If that doesn't work, then I guess I'll be buying me a fuel pressure gauge! I might try the starting fluid trick too, thanks for the help guys.

Kyle

 

hey man i got a 94z and it's doing the same thing if you find out what it is letme know

 

same problem here

 

So, did you find out anything? Don't leave us hangin'... I'd like to hear a happy ending here

 

I still haven't done anything with it yet, although I have figured something out. If I let it sit with the ignition on for about 5 seconds or more, then try to start it, it will usually start on the first try so I am thinking fuel filter too. I'll try to get it done this week sometime and get back to you guys.

Kyle

 

kyle,
it doesn't sound like the fuel pump drain back valve, but to test, turn to ignition several times(ie, let hte pump prime.. shut it off.. then do it again) 3-4 times. see if it starts now on the first try.