Chevrolet Repair: no start, fuel tank, fuel pump

Question
My 1997 silverado wont start. It sounds like its not getting fuel. The engine turns over but does not start.How can I tell if its a bad fuel pump?

Answer
Hi Joe, You should be able to hear the pump come on for about 2 seconds, when you turn the key to run. If not try this....have someone crank the engine without letting off for 10 to 15 seconds while you hit the bottom of the fuel tank with a large hammer. This almost always gets the pump running and the engine will start. Now you know you need a new pump.

Hope this helps

Mark