Acts like it runs out of gas
 

My 1997 GMC Sierra Turbo Diesel dies like it has run out of gas. If I let it sit for 30 sec or so, it will start back up. I started with the fuel filter and just replaced it. The same thing happens. I then replaced the fuel pump. Still the same. I just replaced the fuel sender that sits in the fuel tank. It ran for a few short trips but happened again yesterday. Before I changed the fuel sender I moved it to a flat location and was going to run it to use up some of the fuel as I had just fuelled up and it is the extra large tank. It ran perfectly for almost an hour before I turned it off. Not sure if the "flat" area is another symptom or just coincidence. Someone said check fuel pressure. I don't have that equipment or access to it, but when I replaced the fuel filter I put it on wrong and fuel was leaking out at a very high rate, so I do not think the pressure is the issue. I also was directed to check the fuel shut off solenoid. I believe I checked that properly and it does seem to work. I checked the fuel that was in the tank when I had the tank down to replace the fuel sender and it looks clean inside. I am only moderately knowledgeable about engines and actually watched youtube videos to figure out what I did do. I am about out of money and patience. Anyone have any further ideas. Thanks in advance!

I also changed out the fuel pump relay.

Sounds like you may be experiencing problems with the OPS the oil pressure switch this controls the Lift pump also check all grounds including the one on the rear of the passenger side head.

Oil pressure switch faulure can be checked by appliying 12volts to the lift pump and then see how it does. Just remember to unhook it when you stop or you will have a dead battery.

Thanks! I will try that Saturday morning and let everyone know.

Check, clean and replace grounds . Bad grounds can cause lots of grief, and it is free to clean them up and doesn't take long to do. I had a similar problem and after lots of grief I ran fresh grounds ,to the engine stud, HP fuel pump, PMD heat sink, Body and frame. and cleaned the existing ones and the problems went away.

I would definitely take a look at the power running to your Lift pump, you might get voltage, but you should check you have enough amperage to run the pump. In the case with my truck the OPS burnt out and fried stuck, so it was sending current, but not enough to power the pump.

Start with a lift pump test, simplest way is to just jump the pump with a paper clip in the relay housing, and crack the T-vavle, if the pump is running you should get fuel. Then, remove the clip and run the truck, see if its the same.

Hope you got the right sender unit. Some have the wrong sock which can get clogged. I just pulled mine off and threw it away. Don't have any problems unless you run it with less than a gallon or two of fuel in it in hilly areas.