Quick Diagnosis of a '97 Chevy with a Fuel Pressure Problem

Low power condition troubleshooting. Quick methods to identify a fuel pressure problem on any car.
Interested in any tools I used in this video? see links below:
www.amazon.com/shop/scannerda...
www.scannerdanner.com/tools.html
Video breakdown:
- 3:12 Unplugging the MAF sensor as a guide
- 3:48 Fuel pressure testing w/gauge
- 3:58 www.amazon.com/shop/scannerda...
- 4:05 OTC fuel pressure gauge (listed on my Amazon page)
- 4:27 www.amazon.com/shop/scannerda...
- 5:30 snap throttle testing
- 6:54 dead head testing (fuel pump max psi test)
- 8:20 checking power and ground @ the relay
- 8:57 uActivate tool found here www.scannerdanner.com/tools.html
Other videos where I have used the uActivate tool:
• No Start Testing Basic...
• A/C clutch not engagin...
- 11:25 P0171, P0174 fault codes
- 14:53 P0131, P0102, P0151
- 16:15 ch.14,15,16 playlist • (Chapters 14, 15,16) F...
- 16:23 ScannerDanner Premium link www.scannerdanner.com/join-sc...
- 17:33 power and ground check @ the pump (link to Lincoln Towncar video)
Part 1 • Ford EEC-IV No Start N...
Part 2 (the comeback) • New Fuel Pump, No Fuel...
For more information on this topic, I have written a “field manual” called Engine Performance Diagnostics which is available at www.scannerdanner.com as an eBook or paper book.
Want even more diagnostic training? Whether you are a DIY trying to fix your own car, someone looking to become an auto technician, or a current auto technician that wants to get more into diagnostics, subscribe to ScannerDanner Premium www.scannerdanner.com/join-sc... There is a 14 day free trial.
On ScannerDanner Premium I will bring you right into my classroom at Rosedale Technical College. You will find page for page lectures taken right from my book as well as exclusive classroom type case studies. What is so special about these classroom case studies? I pull live problem vehicles directly into my classroom and we troubleshoot them in real time, using and applying the theory and testing procedures we learn during the classroom lectures. There is no better on-line training of how to troubleshoot automotive electrical and electronics systems anywhere!
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. ScannerDanner LLC assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. ScannerDanner LLC recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ScannerDanner LLC.

[@ScannerDanner]

Love all the comments and support! Thank you so much. To those concerned I am going to change my video style and format, I want to reassure you that I am not. This was just one of those days. Four cars to do and not enough time to film them all like I would like and a shop that needs an answer, that's all it was. There will be more like this at times. The choice was either not film it at all or do one like this. I just figured you guys would like a little of something rather than nothing. Make sense? Thanks again everyone. I hear you loud and clear! I will keep teaching!!

[@1977jelliott]

ScannerDanner love that you are able to call a fault on your knowledge of what should be, can you link to or advise on a good database of known good or factory specs or is what you know purely based on experience?

[@matthewelios8786]

Hey Paul & Caleb, we appreciate all the time you put into these great videos!!

[@MrSamadolfo]

😍 yay you would have been a great teacher at a trade school back in the day at Universal Tech or Lincoln Tech or a bunch of others including some of the OEMs that have schools too! 💻😍🚩

[@ScannerDanner]

Thank you! And I do teach at Rosedale Technical College in Pittsburgh PA

[@MrSamadolfo]

ScannerDanner 😍 Cool! That makes sense and thats great! I can tell ur a good Profe & Maestro 🤓👍

[@spelunkerd]

Your teaching style is outstanding already, there is no reason to change it. The way you digress to discussion of alternative approaches is brilliant, teaching to a much bigger audience than those with the specific set of tools that only a pro would have. Watching how you formulate a list of likely diagnoses while you are working is really helpful, especially during the initial test drive and exam.

[@ScannerDanner]

Thanks so much my friend.

[@Viper81766]

spelunkerd well said :)

[@2001BornAgain]

If I were to guess, one of his students wanted to see it in action for real time analysis. How long does it take to diagnose X?

[@crustybunz]

I agree.

[@Diagnosedan]

It lasted 5 minutes and then you started teaching again!🤣🤣👍 Thanks for the Video!

[@smms1276]

DiagnoseDan. Haha can't hold back when it comes to sharing knowledge, TOOO MUCH PRESSURE, ITS GOING TO UNLEASH... LIKE A BLOWOFF VALVE HAHA

[@gestapospies2626]

😂😂

[@rtchrg440]

Paul - please keep doing videos with teaching. That's what makes your videos valuable! Teaching of systems as you diagnose is what really helps us techs on diagnosing/repairing quicker-faster-better.

[@johnpaulgarrett1]

Amen Brother!

[@user-oi5de1fx9g]

Even thou I am already a seasoned mechanic I am always glad to see how other technicians troubleshoot problems. Never too old to learn a new trick. Keep up the good work.

[@mostlymoparih5682]

Always a pleasure to watch you teach how to diagnose a problem. It's always good to have an Ace up your sleeve and be able to look at a problem from different angle or perspective. Another good one guys.

[@wtfman5313]

Im with Spelunkerd - your ability to open minds to difficult concepts is a gift. Your intuition is uncanny my friend.

[@markrup6369]

Paul, I don’t think it’s in your DNA to do a video without teaching - and that’s why I love your channel. Keep up the great work.

[@joemikos9155]

Just another great vid Paul. Love it that your son is out there with you. Your enthusiasm is at least as high as it was years ago and that's a tribute to your passion. Long time subscriber, thanks for the great product!

[@memo03leo]

I’ve seen all your videos and this one makes a difference Fast,simple, solution for customers,teaching is the best method to educate DIY Mechanics out there.Your the best that I’ve seen and learned from you. Thanks for what you do and keep doing it .

[@dalix1951]

Great vid as usual and please don't change a thing. Your great teaching capability and attention to detail is what makes you different from all other video channels.

[@Blackmage50]

I like the split between a fast to the point diag up front then a very useful explanation to follow. All in all great diag and as always very professional! 👍

[@ahmedahmed-dt5ew]

I'm just a car who became a mechanic who helps everyone around me for free im very grateful for you Scannerdanner you became famous in my area because because i keep telling them about you i do wait for your videos i cant stop learning

[@nextlevelautorepair]

I just bought your book from aeswave last week. And plan on getting your premium subscription next. Your teaching has helped me become more effective. Now I want to take it to the next level. Get my A8 and L1. And start making real money off these tools I’ve invested in. Your service and effort is appreciated.

[@mitchelnoble5962]

Man from mechanic to mechanic your a smart man bro you described how to diagnose this issue for someone with notmechanical experience that is awesome you are the man.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Paul you should know those GM's in that year range inside and out. I like this format as well as the teaching format!

[@swfloridacarguy1987]

Paul, love your style of teaching please continue as you have done in the past....

[@misterhandy5121]

You are our Teacher!!!! Lead the way my friend !!! we are loyal followers !!! thank you!!!

[@josealers67]

I do side jobs diagnosing vehicles thanks to SD. I watch his videos and have his text book. Excellent material. Thanks again SD.

[@andrewk778]

Always interesting and informative. You have a wonderful teaching style. Thank you for sharing, professor.

[@arieshuelgas3616]

Paul, for me you are the best automotive teacher, you teach based on your experience

[@TheRialb30]

Really love your teaching style. Please don't change! Keep up the good work....

[@JasonTheMunicipalMechanic]

I personally like the extra teaching info you give in your videos, and I thank you for them.

[@akrogershopper5]

Your the best! Thanks for taking the time to share the fix to prevent the event from repeating.

[@steveo782812]

Proud to say I am from the school of Scanner Danner. Yep, your Scanner Danner premium videos are awesome at being able to understand how to troubleshoot.

[@dilligaf2313]

You my friend are a great inspiration to the auto industry! Classic case and easy fix with the know how. If I was closer to your vasinity I would most definitely be in your class room!!!!!

[@terrencecarter27]

You're great teacher ! Love your videos. Don't stop teaching , you are good at what you do.

[@abe2588]

Hey Paul. I’ve been watching your videos for some time now and I have to congratulate you on your knowledge and ability to teach. I am an ASE Master tech and I learn ALOT from you. Please don’t listen to whoever is asking you stop teaching!! That’s about the worst idea I’ve ever heard of. God bless you and your family.

[@nancyhoralia]

This is the first time I have ever seen one of your videos. And I really liked the way that you teach and go into detail of how to repair problems. I am giving you at thumbs up and I am subscribing.

[@ScannerDanner]

Awesome! Welcome to the channel. Thank you

[@chungaleta1234]

Hey Paul, just be yourself, You were born with a gift. The gift of teaching! That's what has brought you this far. Just diagnosing with no teaching is like playing with Lebron James asking him not to score!!! Great video though!!

[@freddy2064]

Paul's method of teaching is unique. Actually, he was made for this, he's a great tech but his method of teaching is superb even for the home do it yourself kind of guy. Keep teaching Paul

[@kiddbrother3]

top notch troubleshooting! keep up the great work! don't stop!!

[@lionelvasquez1380]

The teaching is my favorite part of your videos!

[@SmOoThYwOoDy]

Just subscribed to your channel. The last video was on the 4.3 that has a bad fuel pump, that was very informative and helped me with my problem, Thank You. Keep teaching us, we are thankful for you.

[@billyyoder8171]

Thank you Paul and Caleb. Bless you and your family.

[@nickwilson1476]

I love these......the field videos are my favorite. We learn a lot from them!

[@eng.mohammedomran3297]

Keep teaching bro! We always need you..I've learned alot from your videos and i'm still learning from your premium channel it's amazing bro! I actually can't thank you enough for what you've gave me! God bless you man you are a precious friend and a great teacher. ❤

[@eddierobinson3867]

I have a mass air flow circuit low

[@Slappysworld85]

I really like you teaching as I'm watching the video. I really appreciate all you do

[@joserodriguez2632]

You see even if you try making a video without teaching you just can't stay away from it,YOU were born to teach period.and by the YOU ARE THE BEST........ thanks

[@martinwilkins8196]

Finally A good video on fuel pressure, and no start troubleshooting! Excellent!

[@ScannerDanner]

What are you working on? I have a bunch of other ones that may be more specific to your car/truck or issue

[@venomx4093]

I had experienced this "weak" pump with my former ford f150 and my wife's toyota 4runner. Both pumps worked, hummed and all. Fuel pressure was up, but weak. People around me argued that if it's spraying fuel out of the port, then it's not the pump. Both cases, I replaced the fuel pumps and the issues were fixed. I argued that it can spray and still be weak. They said no lol. I'm a DIY type of mechanic. My ford had the exact same symptom with pushing the throttle down. Awesome video.

[@Jursaw]

Awesome video, I like when I guess whats the next step or the answer and its correct! Shows me that I’m learning from watching your videos and put that information to other diagnosis

[@phillipsizemore11]

You are great teacher and human for sharing your knowledge

[@jennifercampbell742]

I LOVE your channel Dan. You are such a bright guy!

[@ScannerDanner]

thanks but my name is Paul :-)

[@ericbredvick813]

Hello , Enjoyed your video. Will watch more . Hopefully you will teach and never stop . Your sharing a great gift you have . Anyone with sense even moreover already educated to a certified level should and does appreciate your teaching and sharing your knowledge. If someone doesn’t think they need educated then they should probably be searching elsewhere for there information . Thank you , your a great teacher . Erick , Tulsa

[@JohnnieBravo1]

nice informative video. Awesome troubleshooting with so many different symptoms explained.

[@ubmixinb360]

Great video, easy to follow without all the techy techy talk. The Math was great as well..over my head but gave me another angle to think about things. You're the 1st to mention that.

[@Paul1958R]

Paul, Great video as always. Thank you. God bless you and Caleb Paul

[@davidclemmons5769]

Scanner Danner is the man he's shows you every direction and explains how to tackle the problem the right way l have no fuel pressure and by following him he teaches you so you can be totally confident on how to approach the problem thank you so much Danner l have no doubt that l will fix my car problem solved

[@ScannerDanner]

Thanks so much!

[@tracydiller4492]

Paul, do yourself a favor DON'T CHANGE A THING!!!!! Your videos are some of the BEST out there PERIOD!!!! Great video Dr. Danner keep them coming as is until next time PEACE.

[@KobaBlack113]

Keep teaching. You're helping me make money.

[@tremblingone4269]

Thanks Paul. Like that canopy you're working under too! :)

[@stacycummings3325]

Really appreciate the great video. Just confirmed the problem I'm helping a friend resolve.

[@kiddbrother3]

Paul, you bring truth & sanity back automotive repair! & don't stop!! there is some guy who talks down to us on youtube but you speak to us! you use common sense & common sense isn't common anymore! DON'T STOP!

[@gonzgarr1592]

keep teaching you sir are a great teacher and i'm learning a hell off a lot from you and eric thanks

[@bracetwin86]

Amazing my man, not what I needed TODAY Lol but will probably need later to help this guy out

[@chupalia]

I(and many others) subscribed to you because you are the best auto teacher on youtube. It would be a shame for you to change.

[@billk5727]

Keep the teaching up. Love it!

[@UcantBeSerious03]

wow, worked with a of techs in my day, never seen someone as sharp as this guy,

[@pablolopez973]

I like the way you troubleshoot thank you for sharing your videos.god bless you and your family.

[@jesselyons2002]

I don't follow for money. I just like the way you teach. No im lying. Just another automotive channel. Your with the best of them.

[@mashamambea5704]

i love the way u just have to go back to teaching thats a sign of a great man big up bro

[@ScannerDanner]

Can't help it :-) thanks brother

[@nateb.1568]

Although I do like your videos for your teaching, it is also nice to see what it is like when you are diagnosing a car in the field. I would invite having a mix of videos like this and educational and lucture type videos as well.

[@daveg6220]

another quality teaching moment! keep it up

[@robinedgil9209]

Thank you for your teaching, I'm going through this exact problem, thanks a lot again.....

[@jmwxj]

I know this is an older video but it's the gift that keeps on giving and I thank you for it! My mother in law's 97 S10, 4.3 had the exact same symptoms at your truck in the video. I was sure it needed a fuel pump and was dreading having to do it. Anyway, after watching your video I went out and checked the fuel pressure and amazingly it jumped right up to 61-62 psi when the throttle was blipped even with the backfiring and falling on its face. Hmm, fuel pump was okay.. The thing that saved me was what you said about the MAF sensor. I was clueless. There were no codes for it and i had no idea what the symptoms of a bad MAF were but I unplugged it and amazingly it ran perfect, Problem identified and a hell of a lot easier than a fuel pump would have been. So thankful I came across your video!

[@ScannerDanner]

Awesome! You can clean those MAFs too btw. You most likely do not need to replace it

[@jmwxj]

@@ScannerDanner Well, I ordered a new one as soon as you taught me how to troubleshoot it, which I'm okay with. I'm just so happy not to have to change a fuel pump (although that's probably going to come up soon too).

[@wyattoneable]

Teaching is what you do...please continue. I promise to be a good student. :)

[@426woodworks]

Great video! Keep doing the teaching

[@terrencecarter27]

Keep teaching that's who you are and you're good at it.

[@charlesdowns1691]

awesome +skilled mechanic+ i always enjoy your videos.

[@Txdartaholic]

I have an '01 with a 4.3 having what I think is fuel pump related. No codes, 61 psi KOEO, 51 psi at idle. It sometimes will have an extended crank time and it bucks and stumbles on accelertation. I didn't know you have to do a snap throttle as well.....thanks for the info! Learned something new today.

[@moulayediag3873]

Great teacher ....great videos ...thanks a lot I'm learning a lot from you

[@kellyspeppers]

Please keep doing videos with teaching. That is your signature style.

[@johnpaulgarrett1]

This was the best fuel pressure video i have seen in my life.

[@ScannerDanner]

Thank you! I have a few others like this too if you needed more help. You'll find them in my chapter 16 playlist .

[@CubasAutomotive]

Caleb sounds like he's really starting to absorb this info! That's fantastic! It takes repetition, but after time it sinks in. Great parenting, as he could be out there playing video games and being a zombie like many kids today, fortunately he's not and puts some effort to come out with you. Good to have a camera guy too. God has certainly blessed your family Paul!!

[@ScannerDanner]

yes He has Cuba, thanks bro

[@Mako-sz4qr]

Yeah Don't change nothing. Your the best ! Thx for everything you do.

[@EXTEZZEE]

Great video. Thank you so much. This helped me with a car I was getting ready to working on. Same problem. Lol.

[@Pablo_Automotive]

A great job again Paul and Caleb thanks for share 🔧🔧☺👏

[@user-qp3pc3xt1g]

Outstanding job

[@nickl3872]

good video! didn't realize these would suffer from such a small pressure drop. I've never had one with a drop like that usually they're just totally dead when I get them

[@bobbyrichie3509]

Dude you're a badass teacher and I like your videos thanks 🤘

[@bobsoft]

Several things influence fuel pressure while the engine is running such as the fuel pressure regulator setting, ambient temperature, coolant temperature, percentage of throttle opening, altitude above sea level, overall engine condition and engine load. All of which have a direct affect on fuel injector pulse width, which directly affects fuel pressure. Due to these variables, GM does not publish any “engine running” fuel pressure specifications for this system. Fuel pressure and leakdown must be tested with the engine off. Fuel pressure: Key ON, engine OFF, (fuel pump will run for ~2 seconds and shut off). Fuel pressure must be checked when the pump is running: Pressure must be 60 psi to 66 psi. It must remain above 55 psi for at least 10 minutes after the pump shuts off.

[@NDB390]

Correct. I was wondering why no leak down test.

[@Thebombonlyone]

What are you yapping about

[@CornFed86]

Appreciate your videos. Dont be a parts changer 🤙🔥

[@JoelAutomotiveInaction]

Thank you teacher, I have learn a lot from you.

[@geronimoescobedo6960]

Great teacher don't stop

[@GeneralMechanicGA]

Hey man i cant say nothing else but Im loving your videos man! I have a channel too Simple tips and sharing something that may help some one But let me tell you You are the one helping us to keep getting knowledge on this stuff! Imma check out your premium channel! Thanks man!

[@tickyul]

Great videos, I learn a lot.

[@legionjames1822]

Scanner danner the legend

[@obxtarheel9191]

thanks man, you helped me figure out i had a weak fuel pump

[@Bryan-Hensley]

Change the filter first. It can do the exact same symptoms.

[@Watchyn_Yarwood]

Please don't ever stop teaching!

[@ChevroletTough]

Nice video. You are exactly my type of mechanic. I am the same way as you!

[@greggibson6993]

Great Video!! knowledge is key!

[@gestapospies2626]

Was glad I could teach him about CMV Air Brakes one Saturday. A gift from a flower to the garden. Keep sharing the love dude. 🤙🌺

[@ScannerDanner]

Who's this? Did you help me with my RV?

[@gestapospies2626]

ScannerDanner yeah I did. One Saturday afternoon on Facebook?. I really studied hard at school. 80,000 pounds in New England you gotta have good Brakes. I follow you on Facebook. I discovered your videos trying to figure out my 44 code on my 1995 Chevrolet LT-1 vin code “P” “Coprice” that sits far too much. I just found his one too in my quest to get my car registered again. Though the tests have gotten much better still not passing. Still can’t get my “Coprice” through emissions. 🙄. Driving me crazy. I told the young tech that does the test about you, I’m not sure if he’s taken my suggestion. I sent him this link to the garage he works at thinking it might tweet his curiosity if he knew you can figure out the fuel pump rpm with waveform on a scope. That BLEW ME AWAY. And yes. We followed the math. Your a great example for the kids in far more than fixing cars. Follow your bliss and you’ll never work a day in your life. Eh? God bless you.

[@gestapospies2626]

Same back atchas. 🌺💕

[@gestapospies2626]

ScannerDanner ohhh you’re the guy to ask. Duhhhh me. How do I light up the catalytic to do a “self clean oven cycle”. I saw in one of your videos mention of conditions that would result in that? They do seem ok to me. 100~150°F, hotter at the rear of cat than the front incoming temp. I think I saw 650°F on the out end. Months ago. No back pressure issues that I can perceive.

[@bilalflayeh6889]

You are so great Mr Paul

[@deepsquat600]

I watch YOU ....Eric O , Ivan and Keith ... because you teach! :)

[@supercoupe6288]

great tips, you make it easy for us to understand.

[@baxrok2.]

Nice job guys. Thanks!

[@dinonaccarato2989]

Keep teaching, I can see your passion. The money will come

[@ScannerDanner]

Yes it will! Thank you

[@joemarsiello6203]

I have a 97 buick park ave and no one can seem to solve my problem, I hope you can. In the summer when the outdoor temp. exceeds 85 F and my engine temp. reaches 205 F to 212 F when I feed gas it hesitates and stalls but starts right up with no problem starting. It will run as long as I don't try to accelerate. Please HELP. Thank you .....Joe

[@d.d4184]

Another informative video thank you.