[BWoodbury]

My 1996 GTS has been difficult at start up since I uncovered it this Spring. It takes 2 or 3 tries to get her to fire up. Once started, it runs fine. It feels like a lack of fuel, and I have a bad feeling that that means the fuel pump. Any thoughts before I take a rather expensive trip to my Viper Tech?

 

[vipernathan]

Fuel pump without a doubt. The pump is pretty inexpensive and shouldn't be that much to change out. It's a 2 hour job for yur Viper tech. Just make sure when you take it in, it has little fuel as they have to drain it to install the new pump. Once the new one is in, your car will start right up like it's brand new again.

 

[GTS Dean]

Yes, it's probably the fuel pump check valve - a part of the whole assembly. Until it's replaced, turn the key on for about 3-5 secs to let pressure build up before cranking.

 

[NOITALL]

Our 96 does it. Cyle the key to "run" 2-3 times then fire it up.

 

[BWoodbury]

The pump is pretty inexpensive and shouldn't be that much to change out. It's a 2 hour job for yur Viper tech.

Thanks for all the info. My tech says $544 for the pump and 3 hours for the swap. It could be worse, another Dodge dealer's service department quoted me $904 ($544 + 4 hours).

We have a big rally this weekend. Can't be having starting problems in front of all those Lambos and Ferraris.

 

[vipernathan]

Seems kinda high. We paid $350 for our last pump then $100 to our Viper tech for install. You may want to try Chuck Tator or JonB to see what they can do for you. 3 hours is a bit exageratted as well.

 

[BWoodbury]

I wish I had your tech! Thanks for the JonB reminder. For some reason I only think of Parts Rack for the fun stuff. But he saved me over a $100 and it will arrive tomorrow instead of Friday from my dealer.

 

[vipernathan]

Glad I could help. Your car will start much better now. Have fun at your meet!

 

[BWoodbury]

Fixed! She fires right up now. Thanks for the help...

A good idea from JonB for anyone else needing a new fuel pump. It's a great time to change you fuel filter too.

Now if the rain will just stay away on Sunday...