Chevrolet Repair: fuel problem, chevy suburban, neighborhood family

Question
i have a 99 chevy suburban and i replaced the fuel pump 3 times now and i have to change it again do you have any idea why these pumps keep going out all these went out with in 1 1/2yrs. i would take it to a shop but i cant really afford $1,000 for the repair. any help would be appreicated. thanks  

Answer
Hi Nick,

If you can change the part, the shop is 'OUT'!  Save the money.  You would only get a warranty on the part anyway, not the service.  You get that on your own.  

3 times in 18 months???  One thing is don't run the tank low.  Some pumps, just one time it starves, they burn out.  Is the screen dirty?  Is the tank dirty?  Maybe debris plugging the screen...starving the pump?  How about pressure regulator?  Pinched hose?  I am reaching at straws here.  It is definately unusual to burn out that many.  Are you buying a quality part?  I don't always recommend factory, but a good part name brand.  

If you install the part and the truck runs, then a shop would do nothing differently.  Install the new one again, and let me know what the pressure is reading.  Shop from NAPA, or on line at Summit racing, if you want to try a good, but pricey part.  I shop at a neighborhood family owned shop here.  This is where all the local mechanics go.  They sell CarQuest parts and other good parts too.  You need to find that place by you.

Good luck.

C J S