help me keep my piso running! - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 11:06 AM

Well, the trucks at it again! After having sat for a year (been running 4 months now though) and 150,000 miles on the rebuilt 305, it never has run great. I have to warm it up for at least 20 minutes each morning (even when it was 100+).
A little background, it's got a Summit fuel tank under the bed, that and the sending unit have been in 4 months. The fuel pump was on with the old fuel cell (in the bed, got water in the fuel) and is about a year old, but maybe actually 4-5 months of use. The fuel filter is the same age. The TBI was rebuilt last year also, when I found water in the gas.
I changed the plugs, wires, cap, and rotor last week. The only bad plug was #6 which had a lot of buildup, but I've known for a while that the valve seal is bad there.
Today I gave it the usual warmup, I had to make a sales call in Bartlesville (hour away, test drive to see if I could make it to the OK meet). Ran fine at idle during warmup. I almost made it out of the neighborhood, when I slowed for the stop sign the engine slowed down fast then died. I would turn over and over but not start. I got out and checked the tank, almost full. I finally got it to fire but it died down again. After about 5 minutes it started, I backed up about 50 feet, and it died again. I got it started again and made it home by keeping the gas down and using the brake to control speed. I popped the hood, found the cap was loose and the #4 boot had popped off, fixed those, and it still does the same thing. I'm thinking new pump and filter wouldn't hurt. Anyone have advice? I know I need a new engine, I have the bottom end of a 383 in the garage but lack the $$$ to build the rest. I need to keep this piso running for another year or so.

LOHRTBT · 10-09-2003, 11:11 AM

Like I told you On AIM, as much as you hate to hear this...it sounds like a fuel delivery problem. Maybe the fuel pump puked???

AirMale · 10-09-2003, 12:45 PM

Put a holley 600 on that piso and stop F-ing around with that TBI. Hurry up and build that 383 cause that would keep you from spending money twice. I also agree with Mr. Oxlong about your fuel issue.

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 12:50 PM

Let me re-emphasize the severe lack of money available for the truck right now. If I have to spend over $100 the truck will sit.

bigblock73 · 10-09-2003, 01:28 PM

Greg, If you think your Fuel pump is bad I have a deal for ya. I have a Carter mechanical pump (part #M4891, $61.95 @ Summit) sitting in my garage. It has been sitting there for about two years, and was only on Yeller (when it has a SBC) for a year prior to that. When I pulled it it worked perfectly...so I assume it still does. If you want it, you can have it for FREE (you pay shipping). I already purchased a new Holley mech pump and no longer need it. Let me know bro.

-Jeff

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 01:36 PM

Jeff, that's awesome man, I appreciate it! Will a mechanical pump work for me though? 87 TBI? If it does I'll send you the $ to cover shipping ASAP!

low 84 · 10-09-2003, 01:37 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bigblock73
Greg, If you think your Fuel pump is bad I have a deal for ya. I have a Carter mechanical pump (part #M4891, $61.95 @ Summit) sitting in my garage. It has been sitting there for about two years, and was only on Yeller (when it has a SBC) for a year prior to that. When I pulled it it worked perfectly...so I assume it still does. If you want it, you can have it for FREE (you pay shipping). I already purchased a new Holley mech pump and no longer need it. Let me know bro.

-Jeff

he can't use that pump with tbi it woun't put out enough pressure

bigblock73 · 10-09-2003, 01:38 PM

I know diddly squat about fuel injection.

I guess you could say I am "low-tech"

Do you have a mechanical pump now on the bottom front right side of your engine?

-Jeff

bigblock73 · 10-09-2003, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by low 84

he can't use that pump with tbi it woun't put out enough pressure

I guess that answers my question

Sorry man...I was hoping I could help ya out seeing you got your hands tied at the moment.

-Jeff

**old Rusty C10** · 10-09-2003, 01:41 PM

do you need a universal electric pump set up?lemme know

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 03:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bigblock73

I guess that answers my question

Sorry man...I was hoping I could help ya out seeing you got your hands tied at the moment.

-Jeff

No problem Jeff, thanks for the generous offer! No pump on the side of my block, factory pump was in the tank.

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 03:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by old Rusty C10
do you need a universal electric pump set up?lemme know

I suppose, not sure really. I used to have the in tank pump when I had the factory tanks. When I switched to the fuel cell we put in a Delco inline pump.

bigblock73 · 10-09-2003, 05:51 PM

Anytime Greg.

Hey, how did you decide to run your fuel filler location? I don't think I ever saw the finished product.

-Jeff

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 06:14 PM

Put it in the bed floor, used a marine deck plate. I keep meaning to post a thread about the finished product.

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 06:15 PM

I used home weatherstripping to seal the deckplate over the corrugated bed floor.

bigblock73 · 10-09-2003, 06:28 PM

Looks awesome Greg! So, overall how happy are you with the install? Any flaws I should be aware of before I bolt Yeller back together? Do you know the distance from the top of the cell to the top of the bed floor? Looks like 3 inched or so...just pondering how I am going to do mine.

Sorry to hijack your thread, PM me if you like.

L8TR - Jeff

TIMSPEED · 10-09-2003, 06:28 PM

Greg,
Have you looked at the distributor button? It's a little stupid $1 part, but it's made seriously of PENCIL LEAD! If you had a loose cap, it may have cracked the stupid little thing...I would check it out.
BTW: Your fuel cell/gas door is the EXACT setup I'm going to do, you just took it one step further and put the gas door all professional style. (Which I'll have to copy you now

)

79BIG10 · 10-09-2003, 06:41 PM

I think that the best thing to do is to check the fuel filter first. I bet it's clogged up being down for so long. Cheap insurance as well. Also may be time to replace the fuse on the TBI and fuel sender. Another cheap insurance as well.

toytruck · 10-09-2003, 07:08 PM

Sounds like you have 2 fouled out plugs. And you need a new O2 sensor when the last time you changed that? They are under $20 bucks. Wouldn't hurt to put a new temp sensor ( get a AC one not AutoZone junk)on it too. Under $10.bucks. Thats all that really go wrong with the TBI motors and when they go bad they will run like crap! If that doesn't do it check the EGR.

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 08:47 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bigblock73
Looks awesome Greg! So, overall how happy are you with the install? Any flaws I should be aware of before I bolt Yeller back together? Do you know the distance from the top of the cell to the top of the bed floor? Looks like 3 inched or so...just pondering how I am going to do mine.

Sorry to hijack your thread, PM me if you like.

L8TR - Jeff

I love it, only thing I would change is to have used a 45 degree fitting on the back instead of a straight one for a cleaner look. There is plenty of room between the bed and the tank. I did have to notch the bed support to clear the top of the sending unit. Only problem I've had is that ever since I put the bed back on, I can't get the gas cap to lock into place. It hasn't been a problem though, it stays in place. I'd still like to get that figured out though.

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 08:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TIMSPEED
Greg,
Have you looked at the distributor button? It's a little stupid $1 part, but it's made seriously of PENCIL LEAD! If you had a loose cap, it may have cracked the stupid little thing...I would check it out.
BTW: Your fuel cell/gas door is the EXACT setup I'm going to do, you just took it one step further and put the gas door all professional style. (Which I'll have to copy you now )

Where is it? I'll have a look tomorrow.
No problem on the copy, just go to a boat store and get a 6" deck plate, they come in white, black, and you can sometimes find them in chrome.

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 08:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 79BIG10
I think that the best thing to do is to check the fuel filter first. I bet it's clogged up being down for so long. Cheap insurance as well. Also may be time to replace the fuse on the TBI and fuel sender. Another cheap insurance as well.

You're right B, I ought to go ahead and do those things just to be safe.

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 08:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by toytruck
Sounds like you have 2 fouled out plugs. And you need a new O2 sensor when the last time you changed that? They are under $20 bucks. Wouldn't hurt to put a new temp sensor ( get a AC one not AutoZone junk)on it too. Under $10.bucks. Thats all that really go wrong with the TBI motors and when they go bad they will run like crap! If that doesn't do it check the EGR.

Plugs are under a week old, when I pulled the old ones only #6 was fouled. No idea on the O2 sensor, not a bad idea. Thanks!

bigblock73 · 10-09-2003, 08:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Low87

I love it, only thing I would change is to have used a 45 degree fitting on the back instead of a straight one for a cleaner look.

I did have to notch the bed support to clear the top of the sending unit.

I thought about that, I used a 90 degree swivel back there...the 90 swivel is rounded/curved so it should flow better than a square non-swivel 90.

Bed floor/sender...I was afraid of that when I bolt my bed down, I will have to notch mine too then...no biggy I guess.

I am not sure if you can see it in my avatar, but my truck has a stainless steel locking door on the side of the bed that gives access to the fuel filler. I am going to put that in the bed to cover my cell fuel filler I think. I might cut out a larger sguare, flush weld it to the bed, and mount the door to that for a cleaner look...I am still undecided.

Do you know the clearance between the cell and top of bed floor?

-Jeff

Low87 · 10-09-2003, 09:15 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bigblock73
Do you know the clearance between the cell and top of bed floor?

-Jeff

Not offhand, I can measure it tomorrow. There is about 2 centimeters between the cell and the bed support, and about 2-3 inches from the bed floor to the cell. Filling the tank is a breeze with the tailgate up, plus it's good for some questioning looks.

10-09-2003, 11:06 AM	#1
Low87 been here longer than Liz Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Broken Arrow, OK Posts: 2,437	help me keep my piso running! Well, the trucks at it again! After having sat for a year (been running 4 months now though) and 150,000 miles on the rebuilt 305, it never has run great. I have to warm it up for at least 20 minutes each morning (even when it was 100+). A little background, it's got a Summit fuel tank under the bed, that and the sending unit have been in 4 months. The fuel pump was on with the old fuel cell (in the bed, got water in the fuel) and is about a year old, but maybe actually 4-5 months of use. The fuel filter is the same age. The TBI was rebuilt last year also, when I found water in the gas. I changed the plugs, wires, cap, and rotor last week. The only bad plug was #6 which had a lot of buildup, but I've known for a while that the valve seal is bad there. Today I gave it the usual warmup, I had to make a sales call in Bartlesville (hour away, test drive to see if I could make it to the OK meet). Ran fine at idle during warmup. I almost made it out of the neighborhood, when I slowed for the stop sign the engine slowed down fast then died. I would turn over and over but not start. I got out and checked the tank, almost full. I finally got it to fire but it died down again. After about 5 minutes it started, I backed up about 50 feet, and it died again. I got it started again and made it home by keeping the gas down and using the brake to control speed. I popped the hood, found the cap was loose and the #4 boot had popped off, fixed those, and it still does the same thing. I'm thinking new pump and filter wouldn't hurt. Anyone have advice? I know I need a new engine, I have the bottom end of a 383 in the garage but lack the $$$ to build the rest. I need to keep this piso running for another year or so. __________________ ~Greg~ Mac's Garage '87 SWB 6/8 drop "Piso" '08 CCSB Silverado DD the departed '89 GMC K5 Jimmy 4x4 "Rusty Nuts" '77 Chevy K5 Blazer 2wd '83 Chevy stepside "You get what you pay for" - Mike 'swervin ervin' Ervin

10-09-2003, 11:11 AM	#2
LOHRTBT BeWarE tHe eViL CrAnkTOe! Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Yukon, OK Posts: 3,605	Like I told you On AIM, as much as you hate to hear this...it sounds like a fuel delivery problem. Maybe the fuel pump puked??? __________________ ~Dave~ You can call me Mike, Mike Oxlong - 1986 Chevy SWB - Stock for now - *1986 Chevy Custom SWB* *Stolen 6/26/05* - 1985 Chevy SWB SOLD - 1999 T/A Some mods www.cardomain.com/id/ramairdave AIM Screenname - Jester84

10-09-2003, 12:45 PM	#3
AirMale Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Atlantic City, NJ Posts: 1,073	Put a holley 600 on that piso and stop F-ing around with that TBI. Hurry up and build that 383 cause that would keep you from spending money twice. I also agree with Mr. Oxlong about your fuel issue. __________________ 86 SWB 9.0 LITER T-400-OD 4.11 eaton-4/5 drop Best 1/4 12.51 @112mph no traction

10-09-2003, 01:41 PM	#10
old Rusty C10 Robert Olson Transport Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: recent transplant to NC USA Posts: 20,307	do you need a universal electric pump set up?lemme know __________________ Bob 1951 International running on a squarebody chassis "If a man's worth is judged by the people he associates himself with, then i am the richest man in the world knowing some of the fine people of this board" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/a...t.php?f=25&a=9 (you can review the site rules here!) PM Me for your vehicle/parts hauling needs in the North East US or see my Facebook page Robert Olson Transport Live each day to the fullest.. you never know when fate is going to pull the rug out from under you... I hate cancer!!

10-09-2003, 06:14 PM	#14
Low87 been here longer than Liz Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Broken Arrow, OK Posts: 2,437	Put it in the bed floor, used a marine deck plate. I keep meaning to post a thread about the finished product. Attached Images __________________ ~Greg~ Mac's Garage '87 SWB 6/8 drop "Piso" '08 CCSB Silverado DD the departed '89 GMC K5 Jimmy 4x4 "Rusty Nuts" '77 Chevy K5 Blazer 2wd '83 Chevy stepside "You get what you pay for" - Mike 'swervin ervin' Ervin

10-09-2003, 12:50 PM	#4
Low87 been here longer than Liz Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Broken Arrow, OK Posts: 2,437	Let me re-emphasize the severe lack of money available for the truck right now. If I have to spend over $100 the truck will sit. __________________ ~Greg~ Mac's Garage '87 SWB 6/8 drop "Piso" '08 CCSB Silverado DD the departed '89 GMC K5 Jimmy 4x4 "Rusty Nuts" '77 Chevy K5 Blazer 2wd '83 Chevy stepside "You get what you pay for" - Mike 'swervin ervin' Ervin

10-09-2003, 01:28 PM	#5
bigblock73 yeller Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Twin Cities Posts: 13,826	Greg, If you think your Fuel pump is bad I have a deal for ya. I have a Carter mechanical pump (part #M4891, $61.95 @ Summit) sitting in my garage. It has been sitting there for about two years, and was only on Yeller (when it has a SBC) for a year prior to that. When I pulled it it worked perfectly...so I assume it still does. If you want it, you can have it for FREE (you pay shipping). I already purchased a new Holley mech pump and no longer need it. Let me know bro. -Jeff

10-09-2003, 01:36 PM	#6
Low87 been here longer than Liz Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Broken Arrow, OK Posts: 2,437	Jeff, that's awesome man, I appreciate it! Will a mechanical pump work for me though? 87 TBI? If it does I'll send you the $ to cover shipping ASAP! __________________ ~Greg~ Mac's Garage '87 SWB 6/8 drop "Piso" '08 CCSB Silverado DD the departed '89 GMC K5 Jimmy 4x4 "Rusty Nuts" '77 Chevy K5 Blazer 2wd '83 Chevy stepside "You get what you pay for" - Mike 'swervin ervin' Ervin

10-09-2003, 01:38 PM	#8
bigblock73 yeller Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Twin Cities Posts: 13,826	I know diddly squat about fuel injection. I guess you could say I am "low-tech" Do you have a mechanical pump now on the bottom front right side of your engine? -Jeff

10-09-2003, 05:51 PM	#13
bigblock73 yeller Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Twin Cities Posts: 13,826	Anytime Greg. Hey, how did you decide to run your fuel filler location? I don't think I ever saw the finished product. -Jeff

10-09-2003, 06:15 PM	#15
Low87 been here longer than Liz Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Broken Arrow, OK Posts: 2,437	I used home weatherstripping to seal the deckplate over the corrugated bed floor. Attached Images __________________ ~Greg~ Mac's Garage '87 SWB 6/8 drop "Piso" '08 CCSB Silverado DD the departed '89 GMC K5 Jimmy 4x4 "Rusty Nuts" '77 Chevy K5 Blazer 2wd '83 Chevy stepside "You get what you pay for" - Mike 'swervin ervin' Ervin

10-09-2003, 06:28 PM	#16
bigblock73 yeller Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Twin Cities Posts: 13,826	Looks awesome Greg! So, overall how happy are you with the install? Any flaws I should be aware of before I bolt Yeller back together? Do you know the distance from the top of the cell to the top of the bed floor? Looks like 3 inched or so...just pondering how I am going to do mine. Sorry to hijack your thread, PM me if you like. L8TR - Jeff

10-09-2003, 06:28 PM	#17
TIMSPEED Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Modesto, CA Posts: 1,321	Greg, Have you looked at the distributor button? It's a little stupid $1 part, but it's made seriously of PENCIL LEAD! If you had a loose cap, it may have cracked the stupid little thing...I would check it out. BTW: Your fuel cell/gas door is the EXACT setup I'm going to do, you just took it one step further and put the gas door all professional style. (Which I'll have to copy you now ) __________________ I have a few cars... See Them Here

10-09-2003, 06:41 PM	#18
79BIG10 I'm back with 2nd truck! Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Texas Posts: 3,775	I think that the best thing to do is to check the fuel filter first. I bet it's clogged up being down for so long. Cheap insurance as well. Also may be time to replace the fuse on the TBI and fuel sender. Another cheap insurance as well. __________________ 1979 Chevrolet Bonanza Big10 "Tootsie Roll" 1985 Chevrolet Silverado (wife's) Member of the Southern Bowties Club "Don't underestimate how sexy a fat man who drinks to excess can be." Homer Simpson

10-09-2003, 07:08 PM	#19
toytruck 5-7 dropped 87 CC Dually Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: bay city mi Posts: 326	Sounds like you have 2 fouled out plugs. And you need a new O2 sensor when the last time you changed that? They are under $20 bucks. Wouldn't hurt to put a new temp sensor ( get a AC one not AutoZone junk)on it too. Under $10.bucks. Thats all that really go wrong with the TBI motors and when they go bad they will run like crap! If that doesn't do it check the EGR. __________________ I rather be in my 77 Sanger Picklefork Jet Hydro!



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