I have a 2002 SS Camaro with 120,000 miles. I have low fuel pressure. I have 20 pounds on the fuel rail. Car was running fine, then started sputtering for a mile or so, and then died. Tries to re start but dies immediatly. Im going to start with the fuel filter replacement. Im thinking that is probably not the issue. Any one have suggestions on where to go next? I have the factory shop manual set, but the manuals seem overwhelming.

Does it sound like a plugged fuel filter or a relay or fuel pump?

Thank you for your replies.

 

I'd be looking at it either being the FPR or the fuel pump. I'd bet on the fuel pump though. The filter is a possibility, but if the fuel pump has never be replaced, it is more likely gone at 120k.

 

Probably a bad fuel pump. If you are not picky about cutting a hole in the car, you can put in a small hatchway over the fuel tank to provide access to the pump. Most people and professional do that. But, you won't find that method in the FSM.

 

Hey Gary, that sounds like a plan I might like vs. dropping the tank. What tool should I use to cut the acsess hole?. And how big of hole?

Thanks.

 

First I would make sure the pump is the problem before proceeding. You can check the voltage to the pump at a connector under the car just in front of the fuel tank. http://shbox.com/1/fuel_pump_wiring.jpg
But if you can hear it running for about 2 seconds at ignition ON time, then it is working.

Cutting an access "hatch":
I used ordinary tin snips. The steel is very mild and easy to cut. Just be careful not to cut so deeply to cut the pipes, wires, or hoses. Some folks use a cut off tool and get good clean results: 120 Volt 3 in. High Speed Cut-Off Tool
Here is a photo I snapped in a used car lot where a mechanic was replacing a pump. The cutout is a bit larger than normal probably because he wasn't too familiar with the position of the pump. The 1999 and later cars have the pump a few inches farther to the rear of the tank. You can do a search on "fuel pump access hatch for F-cars" and get a lot of information and some step-by-step videos.

 

Gary,

Thank you so much for your help. I cut the panel out and installed my new fuel pump. The camaro is running great!

 

Good job, and thanks for the feedback. Keep in mind that the new opening is only inches away from any rear seat passengers and could become a fire hazard with a ruptured tank in a rear end collision, unless the replacement cover is firmly secured. The stronger and bigger the better.