1985 Nissan Pickup: Yokel changed fuel pump and now it doesn't start at all.

[wombatred26]

The guy that worked on this truck (before I did) didn't "change" the fuel pump, he put it in the engine compartment by cutting one of the fuel lines and adding it in the line, and wiring it in by the negative post of the battery and the accessory wire leading to the fuse box. As far as I can tell, the old one is still hooked up. For about two to three weeks, it has been idling very badly, for example, if you let it get down to normal idle speed, it dies and you have to restart it. The engine has been weak since the fuel pump was put in. Monday, I tried to start it and got it started, it ran for about a minute and died. It wouldn't start after that. Thinking it might be the battery, I hooked it up to my van and tried to jump it. It wouldn't even turn on the gages on the panel. Is there any possibility that the ignition relay is bad or would that be the switch? What else could it be? Please, I need help!!

Okay, update, I have reinstalled the fuel pump, properly. And teh fuel filter and did a minor tune up. It will now start, but it won't stay running unless you hold the gas, the whole time. I changed out the sparkplugs, wires, distributer cap, rotor, pcv valve, and air filter. What am I missing?

Modified by wombatred26 at 4:11 PM 4/13/2008
Modified by wombatred26 at 4:13 PM 4/13/2008

[MaximA32]

I woud take out that Billy Bob Backyard fuel pump and replace the in-tank pump. You'll juet need to pull the bed off or drop the tank. I would suggest pulling the bed. Just get a couple friends to help you out.

[wombatred26]

Thanks, I knew that, really, and I did so, unfortunately, it is still kinda messed up, check out the update, I just posted and tell me what you think? Thanks!

[MaximA32]

I would check the other two things that you haven't checked. You took care of fuel. Now, check for air and spark. You sound like your somewhat mechanically inclined so let me know if you need help.

[wombatred26]

Hey, thanks, I can get it running, but once it warms up, it just dies, I think it might be the pcv valve, but, I'm not sure, I was just now working on changing that and it's a pain and a half to remove!! If the pcv valve is bad or sticks, will that cause it to die? I adjusted the idle and that helped some, it stays running, but like I said after it warms up, it just gets really REALLY rough. I am not sure how to check the vacuum without extra, expensive epuipment, maybe you have some suggestions? I've never worked on a nissan before and it's really pushing the limits of my mechanical abilities!! I feel kinda like this about nissans. . . if I poke it, maybe the problem will go away. . . LOL. I hate to admit that but it's true! Thanks, again!

[3Q Jay]

you really need to MEASURE the fuel pressure rather than guess that it is cured.

[wombatred26]

I did, I think I've fixed the problem!! The start idle (choke) was set too low!! as well as the curb idle!! I adjusted them and have it going great now!! Thanks everyone for your help!!