update: Fuel filter confirmed - never changed, 50,000+ miles on original

- Fuel filter replacement confirmed as necessary (owner verified)
- Timing is electronically controlled, not adjustable (ECM-managed)
- Combined issue: weak fuel pump + clogged fuel filter
- Updated notes with all diagnostic findings
This commit is contained in:
John Loper II
2026-03-21 12:58:22 -04:00
parent 3838e54baa
commit e1bdc76411
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@@ -42,18 +42,27 @@
- Aftermarket: $150-250
- OEM: $300-400
- Labor: 2-3 hours (if professional), 1-2 hours DIY
2. **Optional but recommended:** Replace fuel filter at same time ($15-25)
- Easy access, low cost, ensures clean system
2. **Replace fuel filter** - Has NEVER been changed, probably 50,000+ miles on it
- Cost: $15-25
- Easy DIY job, 15-30 minutes
- Recommended to do with fuel pump replacement
3. **Verify repair:** After replacement, should see 55+ PSI on first prime
## Updated Diagnosis
**Root cause:** Weak fuel pump (confirmed)
**Contributing factor:** Clogged fuel filter (never changed, 50,000+ miles)
**Combined effect:** Pump struggling against restriction, exacerbating low pressure issue
## Related
- Previous distributor rotor issue (resolved 2026-03-21)
- Crankshaft position sensor history on this vehicle
## Notes
- **Diagnosis complete:** Weak fuel pump confirmed, not check valve or filter
- **Diagnosis complete:** Weak fuel pump confirmed as primary cause
- **Contributing factor:** Fuel filter never changed (50,000+ miles) - confirmed by owner
- **Pattern:** Residual pressure at 37 PSI, requires 2 primes to reach 50 PSI
- **Engine runs fine at 53-54 PSI** - pump works when running, just weak on prime
- **Timing is electronically controlled** - distributor is NOT adjustable, timing is ECM-managed
- **This may be the underlying issue that caused the original no-start**
- **Distributor problem was coincidental** - fuel system was already failing
- **Parts sourcing:** Use local auto parts store with VIN lookup for correct pump
- **Parts sourcing:** Use local auto parts store with VIN lookup for correct pump and filter