How to Troubleshoot the Fuel System in a Cadillac Escalade
- 1). Start with a well ventilated area. This will help eliminate carbon monoxide poisoning fumes from the fuel system in your Cadillac Escalade.
- 2). Get a fuel pressure tester. This gadget is necessary for troubleshooting the fuel system. It connects to a test port on the fuel rail that connects to the tester. Depending on the port, it can be installed in-line with fuel system.
- 3). Check the fuel pump with a fuel pump tester. Always use the fuel pump that meets the manufacturer specifications. Connect the fuel pump tester. Place tester between the carburetor inlet fuel line and the inlet nut. The tester fittings can be hand tighten, the fittings are made mostly of heavy rubber washers. No special tools are needed. Use the vehicle specifications. Compare the known pump pressure and the fuel volume. Make necessary adjustments. Ensure the fuel filter is free of leaks and restrictions. Make sure the volume or pressure is not less than required. This should be done before replacement of the fuel pump.
- 4). Evaluate the fuel injectors in your Cadillac Escalade. This is important if the car hesitates, misfires, idles roughly and demonstrates power loss. The fuel pump tester can be used to test the fuel injections system. Do a visual check. This often locates the problem. Look for hoses and wires that have become corroded, disconnected or damaged. Electrical connections sometimes become corroded.
- 5). Spot check the intake manifold or fuel rail. Look for leaks, damage, cracks, wear, rust and dents. The fuel rail acts as a conduit for distribution of fuel to fuel injectors.
- 6). Examine the fuel filter. The fuel filter is located underneath the vehicle near the fuel tank. To find it, just follow the out fuel line from the fuel tank until you run into the fuel filter. The fuel filter performs just what its name implies. It filters impurities and keeps them from the injectors and carburetor. This equates to better mileage and a smoother ride.
- 7). Scan the fuel tank for damage, rust, leaks, loose mounts, corrosion. The fuel tank can generally be found underneath the vehicle near the gas port. Smell for strong fuel scents. This is an indication that a leak is present. Use a flashlight to visually check seams. Weak seams cause damage in fuel tanks. Replace the metal tank if rust is present or clean it with steam or a special cleaner to remove rust and gasoline residue. StarTron Fuel Tank Cleaner removes sludge from both diesel and gasoline tanks. It is sold at local auto part stores and cost $26 and up. Solder small punctures in metal tanks or insert a washer with a screw used for sheet metal.