Hi i have a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 5.9 360 and lately it seems like its been taking longer to start when i first start it in a couple hours about 2-3 sec longer Anyone have any ideas. Also it feels like i have been getting worse gas mileage lately about one or two mpg worse.

Does anyone think it could be the fuel pump for both of the problems that was what i was thinking. I have havent really noticed anything different in the way it runs tho.


Thanks

 

When was the last time you changed the cap, rotor, spark plug wires, and/or spark plugs? And if recently, what wires/plugs/cap/rotor did you use?

 

test fuel pump with a gauge at the rail. should be 49 psi. +/- 5

 

Fuel pressure regulator as well. It acts like a fuel filter and if it's clogged that could be part of the problem.

 

I changed the plugs with some E3's a couple thousands miles ago and i haven't changed the wires or cap yet.


Could i clean the regulator or does it have to be replaced ?

 

fuel pump, filter, regulator, check valve? the whole ball of wax is in the tank and not serviceable except to replace the whole unit. drop the tank or raise the bed to get at it.

you really need to start by testing pressure at the rail. if fuel pressure is ok, then its not the pump/filter, etc and you have some other problem. if fuel pressure is low, then that's the problem. you might can rent a pressure gauge at the parts store. they're not overly expensive to buy.

 

Not true for the regulator. The pressure regulator sticks out of the top of the tank and can be replaced separately.

This is a good start.

 

oops.

 

My dad's acts similar. When cold will start quick. After driving and shut it off it will need to crank longer. Usually have to crank few seconds stop and crank a 2nd time then it will start. Once running it idles/runs good. Had wires/plugs,coil replaced.