I have just "lucked" into a 1997 1500 4x2 with a 5.2 liter but I have to get it started first. The truck has been sitting for about 6 months and I was told it would not start. I brought my code reader in hopes there would be something saved in the computer with no luck (my father in law removed the battery from the truck to charge it). I was able to start the truck if I allowed the fuel pump to cycle a few times before attempting to start. Key on key off 2 or 3 times and it would start and idle for about 10 seconds, if i touched the accelerator it bogged and died. I was only able to spend about a half hour with the truck and this was the extent of my fruit for this visit. Anyone had similar issues? What next? Thank you anyone and everyone who has any ideas.

 

Put a fuel pressure gauge on it, and see what it says. My guess is it will be very low. Should be around 49PSI when it runs......

 

heyyou, thank you. do i measure where the line comes into the fuel rail?

 

The 97 should have a schraeder valve on the drivers side fuel rail, gauge screws to that. If it isn't there, then ya gotta get creative with plumbing so you have one.....