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I replaced the fuel filter on an 88 Buick Century 3.8 ...


Sent to Car Experts May 04, 2006 3:41 p.m.

I replaced the fuel filter on an 88 Buick Century 3.8 ltr. V6. It ran ok before I rplaced it. Now it won't start. I have plenty of gas pressure at the injector rail and it starts with starting fluid. Could you teel me what might be wrong I am in a real bind without the car.

Optional Information:
1988 General Motors Buick Century 3.8 V6

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $20   
Answer
May 04, 2006 3:55 p.m. (14 minutes and 36 seconds later)
REPLIED Check Mark

Is it possible the filter was installed backwards? The filter should have an arrow pointing towards the front of the engine (direction of flow) or it should have the word "IN" which goes in on the side comming from the tank. If the filter is in wrong, it will restrict fuel.

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PictureRIP  -- Lead Technician -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2106 Car Accepts
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Reply to RIP
Sent May 04, 2006 4:31 p.m. (35 minutes and 40 seconds later)

The filter is installed right (I checked that first)and I have fuel pressure at the injector rail. I would be happy to pay more if you can help me solve this. My daughter is waiting on her car to go on a long move cross country.

Thanks

Bill
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
May 04, 2006 4:45 p.m. (14 minutes and 36 seconds later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

Unless it's purely coincidental that the engine is no longer running from the fuel filter replacement, the only other possibility would be the injectors arn't firing which would be a computer control issue.

Why was the filter replaced, only for preventive maintenace? Or was the vehicle not running correctly?

Did you "blow test" the new filter to make sure it wasn't defective, and possibly plugged? You can have what looks like good pressure at the rail, but little flow and the engine will not run. The correct way to determine corect pressure and flow are with an injection gauge. Do you have access to one?

Also, if the injectors stoped firing, check to see if you check engine lamp illuminates when you turn the key to "ON" if not the computer may not be getting power or is faulty.

Have you cranked it long enough? How long can you get it to run on starting fluid? Sometimes it takes 30-seconds of cranking (in 10 sec intervals) to get the engine runningafter a fuel filter replacement.



__________________
Please click on "ACCEPT" if I was helpful-or if you still need assistance just reply, before leaving any feedback thanks
PictureRIP  -- Lead Technician -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2106 Car Accepts
A.S.E. Master Technician, Advanced Level, Smog - European, Domestic, & Asian -- Car Category Mentor

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