Bad Fuel Pump/filter

1. Start Difficulties

   • The first sign of a malfunctioning fuel pump filter is difficulty starting the car. The filter will start to block the flow of gasoline into the engine. This is mainly caused by blockage or clogging, but can also occur from a break in the filter or a misinstallation. The problem will escalate over time if untreated, and what began as a difficult start that took several attempts will become a complete inability to start the engine. Once the filter hits this point of damage the only fix is to replace it.

   Stalling

   • A significant indicator of a faulty fuel pump filter is the stalling of the engine during use. The stall will most likely occur on an upward or downward slope (depending on the placement in the car) when the fuel is being pushed through the filter rapidly. The stall happens because of an interrupted or inconstant flow of gasoline and feels much like the car does when running out of gasoline. At this point, however, the fuel pump filter may just need a quick repair or cleaning.

   Acceleration

   • The fuel pump filter's earliest indicator of problems manifests as stunted acceleration. If the car starts running sluggishly or unresponsively it will mean the fuel pump is either off alignment or in the beginning stages of a clog. There is a good chance at this point that a simple fuel injector cleaner solution may fix this problem and the vehicle will start running efficiently again.

   http://www.ehow.com/list_7270345_signs-bad-fuel-pump-filter_.html

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For a bad fuel pump your van will be really hard to start cold or hot. You will also hear the pump trying to charge when you try starting it. What I've done to get it to start is I purchased a can of starter fluid. You need to spray this inside where the air filter is, but make sure you direct the spray through the back where the hose is. This will by you some time until you can replace the pump. Also if your pump is bad the less gas you have in it the worse it gets, so dont let the gauge go passed the 1/4 mark.

 

I really hope this helps you out.l