I'm working on a 02 Ford Escort 2.0L SPI that is losing pressure when it sits. I can hear the pump activate for about 1 second, but in most cases this will not allow it to start. You either have to continue to crank the engine, or turn the key several times before it builds up enough pressure.

I've replaced the pump, strainer, and fuel filter. Referencing a Haynes manual there doesn't appear to be a Fuel Pressure Regulator, but maybe a Fuel Pressure Sensor. I tried googling this guy, and had next to no results.

The Check Engine light is on, I'll pull codes from this when I can. I'm no expert, but I'm at a loss at this point. Trying to find out why within 10-20 minutes fuel pressure dissipates, and potentially why the pump has to be activated several times to build enough pressure to start?

Edit: Diagnostics didn't pull any codes

 

When you replaced the fuel pump, did you replace the entire unit or just the pump itself ? ,,,,,,,,,,hanky

 

I forgot to mention it was just the pump and strainer, not the entire assembly

 

There is a check valve in the fuel pump/sender assy that is supposed to prevent this problem. As you know by this time they are quite expensive.
The last I checked the price on that item it was like 375-400 bucks, a dealer item.

You have a few choices;
1. Run a wire from the fuel pump test terminal to a switch in the car and actually prime the system before starting the car or
2. Replace the assy.
3. Get a unit from a salvage yard and install your new pump and screen on that one.

Before you decide to do any of these, it would be prudent to confirm this diagnosis.
If you can get air to go back to the tank via the fuel supply line that would kinda confirm it. Also get a second opinion. ,,,,,,,,,,,,,hanky

 

Rock Auto Parts has the entire module for $182.

Still, I agree about getting a second opinion cause $182 is nothing to sneeze at these days.