Vehicle Hesitates, No Start, Lack of Power, Low Fuel Pressure (Test Fuel Pressure and Replace Fuel Pump Module Strainer)

This bulletin is being revised to add a additional step to retest the fuel pressure after the strainer is replaced. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 05-06-04-026 (Section 06 - Engine).

Some customers may comment that the vehicle hesitates, does not start, and/or has lack of power.

The vehicle may have low fuel pressure caused by a restricted fuel pump strainer.

The current fuel pump has a 100 micron strainer.

Follow the service procedure below to test fuel pressure and replace the fuel strainer with a 200 micron strainer.

Caution: 

Notice: Clean the fuel system service cap and surrounding area to avoid possible contamination in the system.

Important: Verify that adequate fuel is in the fuel tank before proceeding with this diagnostic.

1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Turn OFF all accessories.
3. Install fuel pressure gauge, J 34730-1A, or equivalent. Refer to Fuel Pressure Gage Installation and Removal SI Document ID #783543.

Important: 

•	The fuel pump relay may need to be commanded ON a few times in order to obtain the highest possible fuel pressure.

•	DO NOT start the engine.

4. Command the fuel pump relay ON with a scan tool.
5. Observe the fuel pressure gage with the fuel pump commanded ON.

•	If the fuel pressure IS between 345-414 kPa (50-60 psi), fuel system pressure is not the cause. Refer to the appropriate SI Document for additional diagnostic information.

•	If the fuel pressure IS LESS THEN 345-414  kPa (50-60 psi), continue with the next step.

1. Remove the fuel pump module. Refer to Fuel Pump Module Replacement in SI. Use the appropriate SI Document depending on model and year.
2. Flush the fuel tank with hot water.
3. Pour the water out of the fuel sender assembly opening in the fuel tank. Rock the fuel tank in order to be sure that the removal of the water from the fuel tank is complete.
4. Allow the tank to dry completely before reassembly. Refer to Fuel System Cleaning for additional information.

Caution: The pot of the sending unit may have fuel in it. Use caution not to spill fuel on yourself while servicing the strainer.

Notice: Use care not to damage the fuel module pot when removing the old strainer. Damage to the pot may make it difficult or impossible to install the new strainer and/or make the module inoperative.






5. Insert the tip of a small screw driver between the strainer and the pot and push the screwdriver up slowly while rotating the screwdriver to pop off the strainer.



6. Install the new strainer from kit, P/N 88967293, as shown above until you hear a positive click sound.
7. Double check that the strainer is installed properly and there is no damage to the pot before reinstalling the fuel module.

Important: DO NOT reuse the old fuel pump module seal.

8. Remove the old fuel pump module seal from the fuel module.

Important: The strainer kit, P/N 88967293, includes two new seals. It is critical that the same design seal be reinstalled that was removed.






9. Install the same design seal from kit, P/N 88967293, that was removed from the fuel pump module.
10. Reinstall the fuel pump module into the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Pump Module Replacement in SI. Use the appropriate SI Document depending on model and year.
11. Retest the fuel pressure with fuel pressure gauge, J 34730-1A or equivalent, to ensure adequate fuel pressure after the strainer is installed. Refer to Fuel Pressure Gage Installation and Removal (SI Document ID #783543).

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: