Chevrolet Repair: 2000 Lumina Stalls Out and Quits, fuel pressure gauge, chevy lumina

Question
QUESTION: Hi Robert,

I have an unusual problem with a 2000 Chevy Lumina with a 3.1 engine.   It sporadically quits (stalls out) after 1/2 hour or so of stop & go traffic.  So far, we have tried replacing the 3 coil packs and the igniter plate, flushed out the fuel lines and installed a new fuel filter, put Seafoam engine treatment in gas tank and replaced the PCV Valve.
The plugs and wires seem fine.  It is very puzzling since the car runs very well but all of a sudden, with no warning, it just cuts out and stalls.  We have to wait a few minutes each time and then prime the fuel with the ignition key a few times and then the car will start.
Do you have any idea what could be causing the problem?
Thanks very much for your help.

Rick


ANSWER: Your problem could be several things. The only way to diagnose it would be to perform specific tests when the problem acts up.

1. check for DTC's.
2. Check fuel pressure.
3. Check for secondary ignition spark.
4. Check fuel injector circuits.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your fast reply.  I appreciate it.  Can you please let me know what DTC stands for?
Thanks
Rick

ANSWER: Diagnostic Trouble Code...you need to have a scanner.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Robert, Quite honestly, I've never performed the tests you outlined. Could you please explain the process for Checking the fuel pressure, Checking for secondary ignition spark, and Checking fuel injector circuits? I am a fairly proficient backyard mechanic, but I've never had to perform these tests before.  Thanks again for your help...
Rick

Answer
For fuel pressure you need to connect a fuel pressure gauge to the service port fitting on the fuel rail.

For spark you need to remove a spark plug wire and install a spark tester at the plug wire.

Injector pulse you need an injector test light plugged into the fuel injector connector.

What part of the counrty do you live in?