Nissan Repair: Fuel Problem, fuel pump relay, infniti

Question
On my way out of town my engine started stalling on my 98 Infniti Q45. I pulled over at a gas station and took the fuel cap off while the car was running. Air pressure came out of my gas tank for about 15 to 20 seconds and the car died. I have had my fuel filter replaced over a week ago. Once I put the gas cap back on it started and I filled up the tank and went back home without incident. Could this be a fuel pump, gas cap or bad fuel filter? Where do I start? Any help would be appreciated

Answer
Gambi,

The pressure coming out of the filler neck is normal.  And, you should not remvoe the cap while the engine is running or you stand a chance of setting a code for the vapor recovery system.  Now, if the car started up and ran fine I would be thinking the fuel pump relay since it is eight years old and the contacts are probably burnt and that is what caused the problem.  A relay is a cheap part as opposed to replacing a fuel pump so it is the first step in the process.  If you want to know what your fuel pressure is get a gauge and screw it onto the fuel rail and then start the car and you will know if it is within range.  A Haynes manual for $20 bucks is a great source of information like fuel pressure and the like.  Chilton also makes one for about the same cost.