truck won't start properly...fuel problem

[baehan]

stupid me...i thought that i would make it back home but i ran out of gas. while i was waiting for my roommate to get some gas for me, i tried to start the truck like crazy, but obviously it wouldn't start. now, when i start my truck, it won't start right away. when i try to start it, it sounds like it's trying to turn over, but it won't. if i hold it for a few seconds longer...then the engine kicks in. what's going on here? did i really clean out the fuel lines? will this problem go away by itself? did i screw something up? please help...thanks in advance.

 

[JDraper]

You may have clogged the fuel filter. When you run a tank dry, all the crap at the bottom of the tank gets picked up by the pump and put into the line. I'd suggest putting a new fuel filter in and then run a couple of cans of injector cleaner through the system.

BTW, Welcome to the board!!

 

[Odman]

Check your fuel pump relay, Mine went south and it took me a long time to figure out. When you turn the key on, before you engage the starter, you should hear the fuel pump energize, like a buzzing from the fuel tank.

 

[MrShorty]

I heard from a mechanic that, because the fuel pump often relies on the gas in the tank to keep cool, when you run out of gas, it will often overheat the fuel pump making it go bad. Just another possibility.

 

[baehan]

thanks for your help guys.

is it difficult to change the fuel filter on this vehicle? how long does it take to replace it? if it takes a lot of time, i may just end up taking the truck into the shop to have them replace the fuel filter.

thanks again for your help guys...i'll look into those things that you suggested.

 

[Odman]

First you need a fuel line coupler tool. You get them at an auto parts store, cost about $8 to $10 bucks for a kit with a couple of sizes. As far as time, after bleeding the fuel pressure, it takes about 5 min.. If you don't have a repair mannual (Chiltons, Hayes) its WELL worth $15 bucks. If anything it will make a good late night novel.