I have a 3.1 RS that is having issues getting fuel. The pump is pressurizing the gas, because you can hear the pressure release when you open the filler cap. We just bought the car after it had been sitting for a year. One previous owner... 108k miles.

Also, the fuel pump had supposedly been replaced about a year ago, before he let it sit. We're not quite sure what the problem is.

 

The tank pressure has NOTHING to do with the fuel pressure. In other words, opening the gas cap has NO effect on the fuel pressure. If you were to open the cap and release the fuel pressure, you wouldn't be able to leave the engine running at the gas station as it would stall out, and everyone knows it's possible to leave the engine running while filling the tank. The ONLY way to be sure the fuel pump is pressurizing the system is with a pressure gauge at the fuel rail fitting at the back of the upper plenum.

Being that your car is a 90, you could have a multitude of problems. If you know how to pull the codes from the ECM, check for codes 46 and 54. Code 54 means that there is a problem with the fuel pump power circuit between the fuel pump relay and the ECM, and code 46 means a security system problem that means you won't go anywhere until you find out what is wrong between the security module and the ECM. With a code 46, the ECM shuts off the fuel injectors, period. Meaning, you can crank the engine over all day and not get even a hiccup out of it.

 

Sounds like the problem is that it sat. Gas needs StaBil added to it if it's going to sit, otherwise it turns gummy. Replace the fuel filter, and add some SeaFoam to the gas tank, and if it runs then run all that old gas out, add more Seafoam to another 1/2 tank of gas and run all that out.

 

first check if you have fuel @ the rails... then check the fuel pressure aprx 45#
if the pressure is good.. I would drain the tank... replacing the filter is a good idea...

 

I agree with all the answers you've been given. As gasoline ages, it changes and loses it's ability to properly ignite. If there isn't much fuel in the tank, you can add the seafoam and some premium fresh fuel and /or an octane booster. If the tank is nealy full, a better idea is to pump out the old fuel and dispose of it and put fresh fuel in.. your post is unclear about the problem. Is the fuel pump working? while cranking, place your ear over the fuel filler neck with the cap removed and you should hear the whine of the fuel pump. And get a fuel pressure gauge and check to see if the pressure is to specs.

 

The problem with the spark was the coil pack (or that's what they called it). My mechanic friend down the street had an extra one lying around from a previous project. We ended up replacing the fuel pump as well, since it wasn't getting fuel at the plugs either.