Hard Start and fuel

[clm7214]

Truck is a 2002 3.0L with lots of miles. It is taking a few tries to get it started, idles rough/surges slightly, and MPG has been down. New fuel pump assembly installed recently along with every regular maintenance item. Cycling the ignition on/off to build pressure doesn't help. Fuel rail pressure at idle is reading 65psi. I thought it was supposed to be around 45. What is it supposed to be?

The rail pressure does go to 0 if left to sit for a while. I pulled the vacuum line on the fuel rail surge thing and fuel is flowing out of it. I would assume this is not suppose to happen. Any input?

Also, PCV hose is sucking itself closed at idle. Replaced PCV but didnt help, hose is in bad shape, but not leaking. Is that normal or just a sign of an old hose?


Thanks in advance for any help.


EDIT: Google informed me it's called a fuel pulse dampener. Oops.

 

[Rearanger]

Fuel rail pressure at idle is reading 65psi. I thought it was supposed to be around 45. What is it supposed to be?

Pressure is in mid-range of acceptable pressure - 56-72psi

I pulled the vacuum line on the fuel rail surge thing and fuel is flowing out of it. I would assume this is not suppose to happen. Any input?

Fuel in a vac line is not good and probably the reason for rough running/slow start as the dampener diaphram appears to have ruptured. The vac line connection is safety hookup so fuel won't spill on engine if diaphram ruptures. Replace dampener. The fuel pump has a check valve to prevent pressure loss when engine off.

Also, PCV hose is sucking itself closed at idle. Replaced PCV but didnt help, hose is in bad shape, but not leaking. Is that normal or just a sign of an old hose?

Replace hose. The stiffness of the hose is all that keeps it from collapsing due to vacuum.