Hey guys,

Since last week my car has been starting hard. Usually have to crank it 3 or so times before it turns over but once it does it runs like a top.
Now according to All Data, the fuel pressure for the pump with only the ignition on is between 40.5 - 47 psi and the pressure at idle should be 30.5-44 psi

So i hooked up the fuel pressure gauge today and there is no pressure at idle at all. There is nothing until I start cranking it and then it works its way up enough to start and once its running it idles right at 44psi

So basically i have no idea what to do next. i talked to my mechanic about it and he is going to look at All Data again to see if there is any fuel pump relays or something before we go and change the pump. Honestly i dont think the pump needs to be changed since once the car starts the pump works 100%.

Does anyone have any ideas about this or anyone have a problem like this before? its a 87 formula 350 TPI

Thanks guys, this is bothering me.

 

I assume that you mean that there is no pressure when the key is first turned on, but before cranking it. Sounds like your fuel pump relay is not doing its job and the engine is only starting after oil pressure starts building.

 

yes, there is no pressure when the key is in the in the "on" posistion but not running. once it starts up it runs fine...

 

Fuel pump relay is not priming the pump. Car is starting only after oil pressure builds up and turns on the fuel pump.

 

I can hear the fuel pump prime when i turn the key on but its not getting any pressure...

 

Sounds like the symptoms of a pump going out. There is a fuel pump "priming" connector under the hood, near the under hood light on the passenger's side. It's just kinda sticking out there. You can apply 12V from the battery (using a jumper wire) to make the pump run even with the key off. If it still takes seconds of running to make it build pressure, then the pump or pressure regulator is messing up, keeping it from building pressure. My last fuel pump developed an internal leak that kept it from building/holding pressure.

The pressure gauge needle should pretty much snap to position and stay there for minutes after turning the pump off. If it leaks down quickly, then it's either the injectors or pressure regulator not holding.

 

Would also check your fuel filter if its bad and not letting alot of fuel though it would cause a similar problem. If you have checked that or its fine (and thats the cheap fix) your looking at replaceing the pump because just like afremont said good possibility your pumps leaking back on its self and not holding the pressure you need to get past the fuel regulator