I have a 2004 Silverado with the 5.3L “T” VIN with the return less fuel system. I am having a very intermittent crank no start issue that I can’t nail down. There is nothing that will “make it do it”. It happens very sporadically sometimes multiple times a day sometimes once every few days.

The first time I try to start it, it just turns over and over like there no spark or fuel(most of the time). Very rarely it will sputter, sometimes even with a back fire or a puff of smoke out of the tailpipe. The second attempt to start within second of the first attempt, starts like a brand new truck.

I have replaced the fuel pump, filter, and reguator(all in 1). I had a code for EVAP purge solenoid P0449, that didn’t change anything after that was repaired.

Other than that the truck runs like a top(other than a ticking noise when under heavy load(high throttle condition), assumed it was probably lifters.

I have no idea where to go from here. Can anyone help?

 

Do you have any OBDII codes to share with us?

 

I second checking for codes, even if the CEL isn’t lit.

Without any other info at this point, I’d recommend pausing between key on and cranking. It’s possible the fuel system is bleeding down while the key is off, so turning the key on, pausing for a moment, then cranking it may help determine if that’s the case by giving the pump a couple of seconds to adequately prime the system.

 

I have the following
B2615 passenger compartment dimming circuit 2
U1096 lost communication with instrument cluster (twice) once under SIR module once under PPS module.
I attached a screen shot with all the ones under the DSM module.
(I do understand these all are not fuel, spark, etc related, however maybe I’m missing something)

Also, I have tried to prime the pump for different amounts of time over the last couple months. It didn’t make a difference. I also want to note(assuming the check valve is in the pump) I changed the entire pump assembly(regulator, filter, pump) and it did it the following morning.

 

also thank you both for the responses. Any help is greatly appreciated . .

 

I haven’t had time to review the details, but I do recall GM issuing TSB’s regarding communication codes, the driver seat module, and links to no start/hard start situations.

So here’s what I can recall off the top of my head:

1) Early 2000’s era models had issues with the passenger door switch (passenger door module) shorting out and pulling the communication network to ground. I think if this happened it was a completely dead vehicle (no lights, power at key on, or anything) but that may not be accurate for all models.

2) The driver seat module harness is known to chaff on the seat track due to its routing. Again it would cause the network to short to ground or voltage. Inspect the harness under the driver seat for damage, repair as necessary and secure the harness to prevent it from happening again.

The easiest test to determine if either of these issues is causing the no start is to unplug them.

The switch should be removable without pulling the door panel.

The primary connector for the seat is accessible by moving the seat all the way forward and up.

 

What I read is you are loosing the prime on the fuel pump. Have you tried turning the ignition switch to on for a few seconds, before cranking?

 

I will definitely try these. Hell I’ll unplug both seats and both door switches.

thank you for that info! I will update next week after I’ve look at the wiring and unplugged.

 

no change with holding the key at run before starting.

I have even tried different intervals all the way up to a minute.

 

Did you check the ground strap that's located right by ur fuel pump? If it's not connected properly it will cause it not to start. I just finished installing a new pump on my 01 silverado with the 5.3 and mine wasn't connected properly after the pump got changed.