2.9 fuel problem

[threehead_99]

I've looked through all the forums and posts about fuel related issues, but I can't seem to find the answer to my problem. When I just start up the truck, the engine runs fine. When I go down the road, the engine randomly shuts off, the CEL comes on and then the engine starts back up. The engine then runs smoother for a couple seconds, then goes back to "normal". It used to happen only when I hit a large bump, but now it's happening more often. It could just be a quick one time problem like described, or like has been happening lately, it cuts in and out for about 5-10 seconds even on the highway to work, and then runs fine. It's a random problem, so I figured a bad or loose ground, but I can't find any. Once, it even cut out to the point of costing to a stop, even in gear and took about 20 seconds total to get the fuel back in the system to start again. Also, even on the highway, I can have the clutch pushed in, and sometimes, just coasting behind a semi, the problem happens. Is this symptomatic of a clogged fuel filter?

It's had a tune up within the last 2k miles, and all the plugs are gapped to .045 like they are supposed to be. At first I thought that was the problem, and turns out it wasn't, as the problem continued. I don't think it's the fuel pump, because pumps usually just stop working and don't cut in and out randomly. I'm replacing the fuel filter on the frame rail this weekend to see if that helps, but I'm open for other suggestions too,as I would rather not have this problem continue.

 

[Jorley]

check inertia switch.
it is located on pass floorboard near tranny hump, under carpet.
it has a small metal ball held in place by a magnet, could be shaking loose.

 

[threehead_99]

check inertia switch.
it is located on pass floorboard near tranny hump, under carpet.
it has a small metal ball held in place by a magnet, could be shaking loose.

I'll check that tonight and see if it helps and let you know after work tomorrow. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Jorley]

it is there in case of an accident to shut fuel pumps off. to check if that is problem just use a jumper, then drive it to see if that fixes problem.

 

[threehead_99]

I just went outside and took it off the floorboards. I had to shake it like hell to get it to reset itself, then I reset it and then I did it a couple times to see if that helps for now. If it doesn't help just doing it that way, then I will just splice the wires together before the sensor tomorrow and see if that helps.

 

[threehead_99]

Well it seems like it's working, but I'm not holding my breath quite yet. My truck has a way of always finding something else to surprise me with. Thank you for the advice!