I purchased this van to convert it to travel in. It's a V8.
Van had been sitting for 3 years
It has 2 gas tanks
can't get it to idle. It will start up then dies.
What done so far:
Relay is good, all 3 fuel pumps turn on. Replaced the big black fuel switch, Drained out all old gas from both tanks and put in new gas. put in new fuel pressure valve,
Still not enough pressure to start or run. I can prime and make it start but won't stay running unless pumping continuously. Both tanks do the same thing. have blown the lines with air also.
I'm at my wits end .

 

Best to start with an actual fuel pressure reading with a gauge attached to the shrader valve on the fuel rail. Pressure should be 30-45 psi and it should hold for a long time after shut down..Make sure no gas comes out of the vacuum fitting of the fuel pressure regulator. Also make sure your plugs are clean and not fouled in any way.
Don't think all three pumps should be on at the same time. Only the low pressure pump in the selected tank and the high pressure pump on the frame should be on always once the engine is running.
When you run out of ideas and worth checking, it is common for the electrolytic capacitors on the ECM to bulge out and cause unusual fuel problems. There are four capacitors that go bad and are easily seen when the cover of the ECM is removed. Easy to change if you have soldering skills.

 

Thank you for replying. I will give this info to my mechanic.

 

We found the problem, there was a leak in a hard to see place and since it is parked grass field we didn't see it. We repaired the leak but it's running really rough.

 

When you say running rough, do you mean misfiring, unstable idle can you be more specific ?

 

Not misfiring, more like it wants to die but doesn't. Unstable

 

When a vehicle sits outside for a long time vacuum hoses crack and produce vacuum leaks. One thing you might consider would be to pinch off each vacuum hose close to the source and see if you notice any difference. Sometimes you will find it right away , other times it will take a little time, but checking all of the places one at a time is the only sure way to find one.
So you have some idea of where you stand, I would suggest to replace all the plugs and spark plug wires because they can deteriorate with time also. Make sure there is no moisture under the dist cap. If you attempted to start the vehicle with the stale gas , you know,,,,the plugs are fouled. Don't overlook the PCV system.

 

We have to replace the catalytic converter. We are doing that tomorrow. Hopefully I will be able to drive it. We are doing a conversion and also putting in bed and kitchen. Lots of work, more than I thought it was going to be.
Thanks for your help <3

 

How did you test the CAT and determine it is defective? CATS last a long time and usually its failure is a symptom of a problem with the engine.

 

the whole muffler was deteriorated and rusted out.. we are taking it in to get it smogged. Crossing my fingers