I had very similar problem with mine after replacing the crank sensor with a Napa sensor. 6 month's of test before i finally got a code for loss of crank signal.
Bought OEM sensor no more issues for the last 4 years.
If you replace crank sensor use OEM only, aftermarkets are junk.

Dave

 

So I finally got a hold of a fuel pressure gauge. on first key turn there was 17 psi, second key turn 40 psi, third key turn 44 psi. On start-up there is a constant 46 psi. But i tested these when the truck was warmed up (when there are no issues).

Would I need to wait till a cold start to test the fuel pressure?


So far I don't have any codes being thrown up and the truck runs fine. Only on a cold cold start are there issues. Was this similar to what you had and did replacing the crank sensor fix it? Were you getting codes initially?

 

Those are signs of a failing fuel pump.

 

On the first key turn it should be 46ish? Do you think it's better to drop the tank or lift the bed?

 

Depends on how much gas is in the tank, if you tank has ever been cleaned out, and if you have some friends to help you lift the bed.

I usually just drop the tank. More out of habit than anything else. Merc found a bunch of crap in his tank, and took the opportunity to clean it out as well. Really not a bad plan.

Ideally, pressure should hit 49 PSI on the first turn of the key, or, REAL shortly after you start cranking. Only hitting 17 implies the pump is getting weak, and is also supplying insufficient volume. (not to mention the check valve is more than likely toast......)

When you replace it, do NOT get the air tex pump. That is, not unless you ENJOY changing fuel pumps. Their average lifespan is just a little over a year. Go with the Delphi, or Denso units. Those are OEM.

 

I got no codes after six month's of testing till it happen 2 times within a half mile then i got the crank sensor code .
I would check fuel pressure again when cold.

Dave

 

Tried it again with a cold start.

First key turn 8 psi

second key turn 15 psi

third key turn and attempted start up 22 psi

fourth start attempt 22 psi

I'm pretty sure it is the fuel pump as well. I might wait a week or two to swap it. I still have half a tank I either need to drive around in or siphon out. I don't drive the truck that often as my commute to work is is about 50 miles one way and I drive a more "economical" vehicle for that.

 

Yep, that's bad.

 

I changed mine with half a tank of gas not to bad.
I had my brother and i we got truck as high as possible with jackstands.
We used a 3/4" plywood against the tank and 2x6 between it and a floor jack to disperse the weight and carefully lowed it to the ground.
Hardest part was getting the fuel lines disconnected from the fuel pump.

Dave

 

Check your O2 fuse under the hood?
Had really bad problems with idle, turned out the O2 fuse popped.