Chevrolet Repair: 1996 Blazer problem with starting, fuel pump relay, water remover

Question
I found this artical and was surprized how close it was to the problem I am having with my 96 Blazer. I was woundering what the fix ended up to be. So far I have done the basic tune up and checked out the IGN switch and the problem remains. I noiced the fuel pressure is 50 psi during start, and then goes to 55 psi while running. The book says the fuel pressure should be 55-60 psi.I swapped the day time running lights relay with the fuel pump relay and did not fix it. I was thinking about checking out the fuel primer wire but I haven't. My Blazer does the same thing as the one below, it is sensitive to voltage.  If I turn off the day time running lights, radio, and the heater blower it starts better. After it starts it runs fine. Also starts OK if it is hot.

Thanks,
Jeff Thompson




Date: 2/26/2004
Subject: 1996 blazer problem with start

Question
Hi, I have a 1996 blazer 4X4, 4.3l eng. now on this lucky Friday the 13th cranked, but did not start, battery seems to be ok), my husband sprayed starting fluid into throat-no problem starts no problem. He added water remover, and fuel injector cleaner into gas tank. Now depends when, lately I need to turn key few times before it starts, when wont start-I spray starting fluid. Friend told us - needs new fuel pump, because when starts does not accelerate in first moment. Do you think could be that problem, or something else? It's funny, but when we use battery charger to start, no problem, starts easy)
The cost to replace the fuel pump is high, can my husband replace by himself?
Is it any relay we should consider to check first?

Thank you for the advice.



Elizabeth

Answer
I think both fuel pumps are ok, and resistance in the wire system are just causing kinda low voltage to the pump.
That would also caust the voltage to the ignition to be somewhat low. Most systems like a full 12 volts or better, and although they may run at 11, or even less, they could be sluggish.
Blower motors run lower speeds just by adding resistors to the power wire, so a fuel pump will also.
I would do a good cleanup from the battery cables, to the grounds...all the way through the wire harness. Every connector, and don't forget under the truck where the fuel pump ground wire bolts to the frame. Don't just tighten it....remove it and clean the contact surfaces to bare shiny metal.

Van