fuel supply problem?

[eleliz]

Hi,

I have a 1995 Legacy wagon with 199,000 miles. Lately, whenever I try to climb a fairly steep hill, it starts losing power and chugging and the check engine light comes on. I've had the engine light checked and it reads misfire No. 1. I don't have a dealership nearby. I've taken it to a couple of repair shops and they can't seem to find anything wrong with it. I used to pull over, turn the car off and wait a few minutes then start it back up. I've learned that if I downshift into 4th I usually can get over the hill and things seem to go OK after that. The chugging feels like a car that's run out of gas. I'm thinking maybe the fuel pump is going, but I didn't want to ask the repair shop to put in a new one in case that's not the problem. I'd appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.

[Cougar]

If the fuel filters haven't been replaced then I would do that and if that doesn't work then replace the pump. You have the classic symtom of a bad pump.

[Setright]

Agreed on the filter. Replace that first. Then consider replacing the fuel pressure regulator (easy acess in engine room) before tackling the fuel pump.

[The Dude]

.......... you could check the fuel delivery pressure downstream from the regulator.

[eleliz]

The fuel filter is new. I'll have the regulator checked then replace the pump if necessary. Thanks everyone.

[scoobdude]

You may be able to get a fuel pressure gauge for about 20 bucks to check pressure on a hill. also try pinching the FPR and see if pressure goes back up.

 

Joe