Nissan Repair: 99 Hardbody VG30 Dying, fuel pressure gauge, nissan hardbody

Question
Hi Von Sudderth,

I recently bought a 99 Nissan Hardbody 4x4 with the VG30 3LV6 petrol engine. The car is in great condition and has been well serviced with +/- 154000 kms on the odo. Until a week ago it was running beautifully when it started dying while idling; the sensation being that of a car that has run out of petrol (which is not the case). I can hear that the motor wants to start, as it revs VERY low while doing so, but eventually dies. It would only start after a few minutes rest (at which point it would run faultlessly again).

Yesterday however, it started dying WHILE I was driving and the cutting-out has increased in frequency. There doesn't seem to be any problem with the earth, electrics or starter motor and the fuel filter is quite new. This afternoon it doesn't want to start at all.

According to the other research I've done, it seems the fuel pump located in the gas tank is packing up, but before replacing it, I should check the fuel pressure. I've also checked the fuel pump relay which seems fine. My questions are:

- How can I check whether the fuel pump does indeed need to be replaced, versus there being another [hopefully cheaper to fix] reason for this problem?

- What other checks can I do to avoid potentially being ripped-off by an unscrupolous mechanic/Nissan dealership?

- Do you have any other advice regarding this vehicle/problem?

Thank you,
CJ

Answer
CJ,

Check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge and see if the pressure dies off when the vehicle cuts out.  Ask your friends where they have received good service.  Any shop should be able to change the fuel pump.  You did say the relay was good?