Update to "Won't Run"

[jor]

87 Suburban 5.7L TBI

Fixed my Suburban. Symptoms were that it would start but not continue to run. Those that suggested the fuel pump were correctomundo. When I got it out (man, that's a lot of work to get to that thing!) I noted that the little hose connecting the pump to the sender had a split in it. I suspect that this was the problem although I went ahead and replaced the pump and strainer while I was in there as I definitely don't want to drop this damn tank again. Here's a photo of the split hose and the new setup. BTW, the pump kit is about $60 at NAPA ($12 less than at Checkers/O'Reilly for the same Carter part) and the strainer is $11. Thanks again to all.
jor

 

[dyeager535]

For as low pressure as those things are, that hose sure splits quite often. Guess that's why GM tried not to use rubber anywhere else in the system!

 

[4X4HIGH]

I'm sure that hose split from either being the wrong type of hose or just plain old age.

Jor, you should keep the old pump as a spare just incase you ever need to make a trail repair, this is assuming that the pump is still good (my guess from what you found it is).

 

[dyeager535]

Stock clamps, hose appears to be reinforced, probably age, but doesn't matter, reason not to use rubber where you can use other.

 

[jor]

Stock clamps, hose appears to be reinforced, probably age, but doesn't matter, reason not to use rubber where you can use other.

The hose was very soft. Kept the pump. I never could figure out the advantage of mounting a pump within the tank though.
jor

 

[dyeager535]

That type of pump is better at pushing than pulling. The less pulling it has to do the better. Little to no priming necessary since much of the time it would already be submerged in fuel. Sound of it's operation is somewhat muffled due to the fuel/tank, plus the distance from the driver. I suspect the in-tank "pusher" type pumps are quieter than most externals, they seem to be quite a bit smaller. Only one real fuel line connection on the pump, which means less production cost and less chance for failure. The pump is submerged in fuel when fuel levels are right, plus I believe the return fuel dumps on or near it, meaning it is kept cool in operation by the fuel.

Probably also safer in at least one regard...even if it shorts or something, there is no chance of ignition in most cases, as there isn't enough air to allow it. On an external pump, with a fuel leak and a short, you'd have an instant fire.