ok bought this 1988 firebird gta 5.0l tuned port injection. when i bought it i first found 3 broken spark plugs so i put new plugs and wires in it. get in try to fire it and... no go turned the ignition on and didnt here the pump so i change the fuel pump and no go on start again.... then i change the fuel filter, fuel relay and even fuel regulator. still wouldnt start, the car starts on starting fluid but dies after the fluid goes away. Im stuck so im reading around on the internet and pepole say to change the ignition module so i did and still nothing. the firebird does have a vats key. i just know what to do please help help me im stuck before i changed the fuel presure regulator i checked the fuel pressure and got 15ps1 with new pump so please help me out with this problem

 

I wonder if they sold you a tbi pump instead of a tpi pump.
Hook up the pressure gauge & pinch off the return line (rubber section). Note the psi & if it holds pressure.
Tpi should put out at least 36psi.

 

One problem that ppl tend to miss, is that the oil pressure sending unit will cut power to the fuel pump if it doesn't see pressure. You may have a bad sensor. Also, as x fire pointed out, you should have 35-38lb or so fuel pressure at the check valve on the rail, if you have the correct pump.

Regardless, you should hear the pump run for about 3 secs or so when you first turn the key to the "on" position.

When I replaced my fuel pump relay, I noticed that the wiring harness for it was in really bad shape, and I think that too, is a common problem with these cars. First thing, imo, would be to get where you can hear the pump prime, and then go from there. You said you changed the pump...but you didn't specify whether or not you could then hear it when you hit the key.

 

This may sound dumb, but check your in-line fuse. That went out on mine and I almost went ahead and bought a new fuel pump until I just happen to come across it. Threw a new fuse and she fired right up.

 

the problem im having is i can hear the pump when i turn the key on and the brief sec its running i can see on the dash the oil pressure working. could that still be bad? ive heard that it could be the vat system would that cause the car to run they tell the computer to shut the car off?? im confused so much lol! im now thinking that we got a bad fuel pump from oreilly's auto parts?? keep replying guys and happy thanksgiving