How to Restart a Diesel GMC Truck That Is Out of Fuel
GMC trucks with diesel engines come equipped with diesel fuel filters that are responsible for keeping trash and small debris out of the fuel injectors. The diesel fuel filter canister is also a place where diesel can be added to prime the fuel system and remove any air from it. If your GMC diesel truck runs out of diesel, the engine will have to be primed with diesel so that the engine does not suck air. If air gets into the fuel system on a diesel engine, it can cause vapor lock.
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Instructions
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Engage the emergency brake and open the hood. Fill the fuel tank up with fresh diesel.
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Locate the fuel filter assembly on the rear driver's side of the engine compartment. Loosen the black plastic cap on the top of the fuel filter assembly by turning it counterclockwise with channel lock pliers.
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Remove the fuel filter cap from the fuel filter assembly. Pull the fuel filter straight out of the fuel filter assembly.
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Fill the fuel filter assembly up with fresh diesel. Put the fuel filter back into the fuel filter assembly.
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Screw the cap back onto the fuel filter assembly and tighten it down snugly with the channel lock pliers.
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Turn the ignition to the "Accessory" position for 15 seconds without cranking the engine. This will completely fill the fuel filter assembly with diesel and remove any air from the fuel system.
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Crank the engine and let the engine run for about one minute to completely purge the air from the fuel system.
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Tips & Warnings
The fuel filter assembly has to be filled completely with fresh diesel to prevent any air from getting into the fuel system. Air can cause the engine to vapor-lock and not crank at all.
Never smoke or use open flames around diesel fuel.
References
- "Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1999-2006 Haynes Repair Manual for 1999-2006;" John Haynes; 2008
- Flash Offroad: Changing a Fuel Filter on a GM Diesel Truck
