nateMiguel

I have had an extensive issue with my 99 mustang v6 over the past 3 years. Three years ago, upon taking it out of storage for summer, it would not start despite the use of stabilizer. The fuel pump was fried. Had it replaced and it was starting. Within a month, again there was a long crank before it would fire. Brought it in to mechanic and had the fuel pump replaced again the second year. One mile after replacement, it was still having a long crank prior to fire (that's within 1 mile of getting 2nd new pump). So, brought it in this year (third year) and the mechanic says it is the fuel pump. There is low on pressure gauge at fuel rail (10 psi in on position and 30 psi when running). What else could be causing the issue? Any ideas?

petrock

A leaky fuel line or stuck open fuel injector could easily cause your problem. If you turn the key on, wait, off a couple times without starting the car, and then try to start the car does it start easier? Do a leak down test with a fuel gauge and a pair of needle nose vise grips with rubber hose on the needles. You should be able to quickly determine where the pressure leak is coming from.

Good luck...

nateMiguel

Yeah, builds up pressure well (up to 30 psi) with a few turns of ignition to on position. First time, up to 10 psi and builds from there. With a few turns, it starts normally because it has enough pressure. I will be doing a leak down test this weekend. Is something at the pump that is prone to leaking that would not be caught by a mechanic replacing pump?

Thanks

petrock

The pump has an internal check valve that can leak. To fix it you need to replace the entire pump. However, the leak could be anywhere in the fuel system. Leaky fuel injector(s), fuel lines/connections or bad check valve. A leak down test will help determine where the problem is. Good luck...

nateMiguel

Task for the weekend. Thanks.

nateMiguel

New pump this weekend and now it finally starting without issues again. Took three years and three fuel pumps but now it is ready to gallop. Thanks for the help.