ddwyer

I have an urgent problem in trying circumstances. I took a long weekend on Cape Cod and planned to return to work today. I got in my truck after it had sat for three days and it stalled after briefly (one second) starting. It does this repeatedly.

It cranks well and seems to fire, but only briefly.

I pulled a vacuum line and, as long as I sprayed starting fluid into the intake, it ran. This leads me to believe that I have a fuel delivery issue.

I checked all fuses, none were blown. I replaced the EFI relay (engine compartment) and Circuit Opening Relay, aka the fuel pump relay, next to the small fuse panel under the driver's knee panel to the left of the steering column. The problem persists.

I can't see any codes on my reader (bought today at parts store) since the vehicle won't run enough to set codes.

I am leaning towards a clogged fuel filter or dead fuel pump. But, since I am away from home (and my tools), I have limited diagnostic capability. Any suggestions?


2003 Tacoma
3RZ-FE / 5-spd MT
4x4 Extracab

TaharaMan

Have you tried getting under the vehicle (@ fuel tank)and having someone turn the key on and listen for the fuel pump to activate? If you hear what you think is the pump, then pull the fuel pump relay and try again. If the sound goes away, likely your pump is working. This is a simple check w/o hooking up a pressure test.

ddwyer

Good idea. I'll try that first thing tomorrow. After that my only option may be to call a tow truck and have it towed to a local garage. That endeavor sets me back at least $250 ($125 tow, + one hour minimum labor) before anything actually gets fixed.

ddwyer

Couldn't hear the fuel pump, but I'm kind of deaf. No time, no tools, paid $126 to tow it to a local repair shop. 1.5 hours and $150 later I find that it's a bad MAF sensor. The mechanic cleans cobwebs (literally) out of it, and the truck starts and runs. It is now setting P0100, P0101 and P0505 codes (MAF and IAC). Seems consistent with a bad MAF sensor that I plan to replace. Hopefully I don't also need a new IAC actuator.