Express 1500 RWD V8-5.3L (2008)
Fuel Pressure: Testing and Inspection
Fuel System Diagnosis
Fuel System Diagnosis
Diagnostic Instructions
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Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure. See: Testing and Inspection/Initial Inspection and
Diagnostic Overview/Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle
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Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
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Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.
Circuit/System Description
The engine control module (ECM) enables the fuel pump relay when the ignition switch is turned ON. The ECM will disable the fuel pump relay within
2 seconds unless the ECM detects ignition reference pulses. The ECM continues to enable the fuel pump relay as long as ignition reference pulses are
detected. The ECM disables the fuel pump relay within 2 seconds if ignition reference pulses cease to be detected and the ignition remains ON.
The fuel system is a returnless on-demand design. The fuel pressure regulator is a part of the fuel pump module, eliminating the need for a return pipe
from the engine. A returnless fuel system reduces the internal temperature of the fuel tank by not returning hot fuel from the engine to the fuel tank.
Reducing the internal temperature of the fuel tank results in lower evaporative emissions.
The fuel tank stores the fuel supply. An electric turbine style fuel pump attaches to the fuel pump module inside the fuel tank. The fuel pump supplies
high pressure fuel through the fuel filter and the fuel feed pipe to the fuel injection system. The fuel pump provides fuel at a higher rate of flow than is
needed by the fuel injection system. The fuel pump also supplies fuel to a venturi pump located on the bottom of the fuel pump module. The function of
the venturi pump is to fill the fuel pump module reservoir. The fuel pressure regulator, a part of the fuel pump module, maintains the correct fuel
pressure to the fuel injection system. The fuel pump module contains a reverse flow check valve. The check valve and the fuel pressure regulator
maintain fuel pressure in the fuel feed pipe and the fuel rail in order to prevent long cranking times.
Special Tools
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CH-48027 Digital Pressure Gage
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J 37287 Fuel Line Shut-off Adapter
Circuit/System Verification
Important:
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Inspect the fuel system for damage or external leaks before proceeding.
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Verify that adequate fuel is in the fuel tank before proceeding.
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The fuel pump relay may need to be commanded ON a few times in order to obtain the highest possible fuel pressure.
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Before proceeding with this test review the User Manual CH 48027-5 for Safety Information and Instructions.
1. Ignition ON, engine OFF, command the fuel pump relay ON with a scan tool. You should hear the fuel pump turn ON and OFF.
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If the fuel pump does not operate, refer to Fuel Pump Electrical Circuit Diagnosis. See: Powertrain Management/Computers and Control
Systems/Testing and Inspection/Component Tests and General Diagnostics
2. Ignition OFF, all accessories OFF, install a CH-48027.
3. Ignition ON, engine OFF, command the fuel pump relay ON with a scan tool. Verify the fuel pressure is between 345-414 kPa (50-60 psi) and
does not decrease more than 34 kPa (5 psi) in 1 minute.
Circuit/System Testing
Important:
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The fuel pump relay may need to be commanded ON a few times in order to obtain the highest possible fuel pressure.
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DO NOT start the engine.
Ignition ON, engine OFF, command the fuel pump relay ON with a scan tool and observe the fuel pressure gage while the fuel pump is operating.
Verify the fuel pressure is between 345-414 kPa (50-60 psi).
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If the fuel pressure is greater than the specified range, replace the fuel pump module.
