Pontiac Repair: 97 Grand Prix - wont turnover, amp fuse, last legs

Question
QUESTION: I drive a 1997, 3.8L non supercharged grand prix se. I went to start it this morning and the engine won't turn over. It sounds like I'm getting spark but no gas is flowing. I have an old fuel pump however it's never caused me problems before. I had driven home the night before and the car was running fine. The car was never run on low fuel. Is there any way to get the car started without having to get the pump replaced? Please help.

ANSWER: Hi Kamil:

What exactly is this doing? You make it sound like it will not crank but yet it has spark? This is not possible. does the engine crank over but not start?  If it will not crank meaning the engine does not turn when you put the key in "crank" it could be a bad starter motor or a weak battery. If it cranks but will not start it could be a lot of things you need compression meaning the engine turning you need spark and fuel pressure. If it does indeed have spark you can check it with a "spark tester" from the parts store then you have to check for fuel pressure. That engine needs about 40 PSI or so to run. you may have fule up to the injectors but not enough pressure to allow the engine to start and run. You will need a pressure gauge to test that. just a few things to try first. good luck :)


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

QUESTION: Well I found the problem was indeed the fuel pump; it shorted out the fuel pump fuse in the relay. I replaced the fuse and it turned over. However, I didn't have the proper 15 amp fuse I had to use a 20 amp fuse. I as=lso put in some gas line anti freeze and topped up the car. I guess my question is, what would be causing the short in the fuse? Could the fuel pump be on it's last legs or would there be a problem with the connector above the gas tank?

Answer
Heres the deal. #1 never use a bigger fuse then what is intended to be on that Ckt. I would say that it's more than likely a pump going bad. It's drwaing to much amperage when it starts to run. Do your self a favor and replace the fuel filter while you are there. That is the most common cause for pump failure the filter pluggs up and works the pump to death. If the pump is noisey that to is a tell tale sign of it going bad. Chances are that it's not a wiring issue and just a big draw from the pump. Good luck and happy holidays :}