I hope someone can help with this; Here is what happened explorer was running fine when stalled like running out of gas. restarted ran for about 2 minutes died again. Would turn over hit, ran for couple of seconds then died, wouldn't hit again. Replaced fuel filter, turned over hit, ran for couple of seconds, tried again same thing, tried again same thing, fourth time would not hit. Waited 2 weeks with recharged battery, started ran for about 2 minutes then died, same situation as before. Thinking it might be a fuel pump, is there anything to try before removing the gas tank for the fuel pump? I don't have access to a pressure gauge.

 

Ok, a simple test you can try when it won't start is to turn the key to "ON" but don't turn it ALL the way to "Start" and then just leave it on that position for a minute or two.THEN try to start it. Do this several times, when otherwise it just wouldn't start. If it consistantly starts after you do this, then it's the fuel pump. When you leave the key on like that for a while, the weak fuel pump starts to build up sufficient pressure in the fuel line to allow it to start, but not enough pressure keep it running for very long.

I hope this helps!!!

 

The fuel pump will run for a second or two when the key is turned to the run position from off. It will NOT continue to run though unless the key is cycled - off for 5 seconds or so, then back to run. Leaving it in the run position will not build pressure.

For the cost of a fuel pressure gauge versus the cost and time to change the fuel pump it is probably in your best interest to invest in the fuel pressure gauge. You might even be able to find a parts store that will loan one to you.

If you really don't want to go the gauge route but want to see if lack of fuel is the issue you could use throttle body cleaner, have one person crank the engine over while another sprays the cleaner in to the intake air hose through a vacuum line (don't want to just disconnect the hose at the throttle body and take the MAF sensor out of the circuit). If it starts, sputters, and runs as long as the cleaner is modulated in to the intake you are low on fuel.

When the truck does start is the exhaust thick and dark like a bunch of unburned fuel? Have you tried getting it to start by cranking it over, then holding the throttle all the way to the flow (Clear Flood mode, turns off the fuel injectors at WOT)? What about if you hold the throttle partially open when it starts, will it stay running? Does it run rough? Have you inspected for large vacuum leaks?

-Rod