I have a 2001 chevy blazer 4.3L. I cant get it to start unless I put starting fluid in the intake. WHen I do that it fires right up otherwise it wont start anymore. I can hear the fuel pump when I turn the key. I checked fuses all were good. I checked the fuel presure at intake was at 45. When I got it to start with starting fluid it was between 50 and 60. Any sugestions?

 

When was the last time it had a tuneup? Plugs,wires,cap, and so on.I had a similar problem and tried some sensors and so on off and identical motor and no diff.I changed the wires, plugs and distributor parts and started and ran great.I think the starting fluid may be giving it a needed boost to start and then its ok,but cant do it on reg gas by itself...???? Allan

 

Allan,
Yeah it had a full tune up. Once it starts it idles and runs great.
Thanks,
Josh

 

Josh, the question wasn't just IF it had one, since it has WHEN was it last done? like in the last 6 mths? pull some plugs and check to see condition of them, also sounds like your fuel pressure for start up might be lower than needed - IIRC it should be 50+ lbs and i THINK actually closer to 60 for starting and around 50 for running. can't 100% remember tho but i'm sure a quick search would reveal the pressure's for start/run/leak down

 

Fuel pump.
jerry

 

I agree sounds like a fuel pump but may want to think about a fuel filter and do a test on the gas that your using to see if it is contaminated

 

Hi;
I have spent days researching problems on my 96. There are several posts about your exact problem it just takes some work to find them. But from my resurch fuel pressure has to be at the least 60 to start. What I read too is if you do need a fuel pump don't skimp buy a good one it is a big job and you would hate to do it twice.
Good Luck
I am not sure if these things are worth all the hassles. I have had mine for over a month and I have gotten to drive it twice and each time there are problems. But I am committed and it will be rite before I'm done.

 

its not overly a BIG job just an expensive one for what it is as GM uses an one in all pump with the sending unit attached and the pump isn't exactly easily replaceable in the units.

it takes about 2-6 bolts, 3 hoses detached from the pump, a vent hose @ the front of the tank detached, and 2 wire clips unhooked from the pump itself to take the tank off. You then twist the retaining clip on the top of the pump off and out it comes with some manuvering to get past the float. BEST suggestion when going to take the tank off is try to use the fuel up to as low an amount you can so its easier to move it. consider replacing the straps while its off also. Took me 2 hrs to replace my tank and its the same process to replace both. Oh ya and you have the plastic tank on yours fstmalibu so @ the front right under the drivers seat of it there's a vent line you NEED to detach from the tank itself without breaking off that plastic tip that goes into the line. broke that off of a junk yard tank and found out after its not replaceable - ruined a perfectly good tank on them lol and fortunately i didn't need it.