Sudden rough running, no power, now won't start.

[onebigelf]

I have a 2001 flex-fuel V-6 Ranger 4x4 with ~150K on it. It has pretty much been trouble free until this week. On the way home from work it started running really roughly with no power. I could pump the pedal a few times and get it to take off for a bit, but by the time I got it into the driveway it was really crawling, just stumbling along barely running. Now it won't resart. The only code that comes up is P0174. There was no check engine light. I haven't had any recent work or parts (replaced a radiator last year) other than an oil change. I'm already on the order list for a new vehicle, but I need to try to get this beast to hang on for about 8 months or I'm going to be buying a "temporary" car. I'm mechanically pretty good, I had my hotrod period as a teen, rebuilt a 351W and raced it for a few years, but modern computerized engines... not so much! I have "Torque" on my phone to access the computer diagnostics, but I don't even know the right questions. I'm going to try to pull the plugs and get cylinder pressures this afternoon left-handed, right is in a sling from shoulder surgery for another 3 weeks. If nobody has a brilliant "Ah HAH!" it'll probably go to the shop next week, but I hate to dump a lot of $$'s into a truck that is already scheduled for retirement.

Suggestions?

Thanks,
John

 

[onebigelf]

Got it. 17psi out of the fuel pump.

 

[bucko]

Got it. 17psi out of the fuel pump.

Because of the fuel pump itself, or a dirty/clogged fuel filter?

 

[onebigelf]

New filter about 6 months ago. I'll replace it again in case. I can replace the assy or just the pump. They have a pump in stock, but have to order the assy. Plus the pump is far cheaper. Any reason to go with the assy?

Thanks,
John

 

[bucko]

You can replace just the pump, but be careful when removing the plastic fuel lines from the pump to metal tubes that run to the top "hat" of the assembly. These lines seem to get brittle and crack when handled, once the assembly is removed from the gas tank. Expect to replace them as well while it is all out.

I guess for this reason folks just buy the entire assembly to make it a "drop in" replacement.

 

[onebigelf]

Good advice. Thanks. I'll plan on replacing them.

John