7.4 starting problems

[thekevin]

Ok, I hope I explain this all right. I have a 98 2500 with a 7.4 and I think that it is losing prime between starts. I can turn the key over and hear the fuel pump and the first time I hit the key it seems like 1 or 2 cylinders hit and then nothing. It normally takes 3 or 4 more times of cranking before it starts and when it does it sounds like a tractor firing up, you can hear 1 or 2 cylinders hit then for maybe a second then they all fire and it normally puffs a little smoke when it does that. The truck runs perfectly after it starts. If it is leaking off is there a common component on these trucks that leaks off.

 

[92GMC]

try letting the fuel pump prime 3 or 4 times before cranking it. just turn the key to "on" position and wait till you cant hear the fuel pump running anymore. do that 3 or 4 times then try to start it. if i fires right up then your losing prime somewhere. if it doesnt change the way it starts then you have problems somewhere else.

 

[thekevin]

Would it be more likely that it is leaking out at the injectors, or back at the pump.

 

[kczrider]

Leaking injectors are a common problems with the vortec 7.4, if they haven't been replaced. Usually worst during hot starts.

 

[thekevin]

that makes sense, it usually only does it after is sits for 1 to 4 hours, any shorter or longer and it is fine.

 

[454cid]

You may as well replace the fuel pressure regulator while you're in there. This is something I need to do to my truck, too.