Fuel is too lean. It lists 10 possible causes, most have to do with air leaks. Air leaks after the MAF sensor location, air leaks in the intake and/or exhaust manifold, even says to check the dipstick not being on tight enough. Now, it also mentions the fuel pump not supplying enough fuel. One thing I noticed (and pointed out in another thread) is that the front fuel tank is selected, when I try to start it, it sputters and really struggles. Once I get it started (by using the rear fuel tank), I can switch to the front tank and it seems to run fine.
So, I thought I would start there since thats a visible problem. Is there a fuel pump in each tank? A sending unit? What parts would you start with to get the front tank to send enough fuel to the engine?

 

Sounds like weak fuel pump. "Sounds" is broad. Try cycling the key on off a few to several times, then try the front tank. If it starts and runs, most likely is weak fuel pump in front tank. Yes, it will throw a lean code if it's not keeping nominal pressure around 45-50 psi. Would be best to rent or buy fuel pressure tester and confirm.

 

Do you know if there is a test port on a 1996 300 straight 6? If so, where is it? If not, where else would i test the pressure? TIA.

 

Never mind - i found the port all by myself (after some interweb searching)!!! It is located on the fuel rail, behind the curve of the #6 cylinder. I think Auto-Zone or OReillys will let you"check out" a fuel pressure gauge. I'll have to do that, or just buy one.

 

The test port is on the very back of the fuel rail and can be a pain to get to as the upper plenum is in the way. The only way to access it is to reach in from the back between the firewall and the upper and lower plenums. There should be a black screw-on cap on the port and a standard sized Schrader valve inside it.