HOW TO PRIME A DURAMAX AFTER RUNNING OUT OF FUEL [EASY STEPS]

With new sensitive sensors and fuel gauges, you can easily know how many miles you can go with the fuel in the fuel tank. But, there are still cases when you can run out of fuel in your diesel truck. You can be distracted, or you can have a fuel leak. If you end up with a dried-up fuel tank, you should know how to prime a Duramax after running out of fuel.

So, how to prime a Duramax after running out of fuel? If your Duramax has a lift pump it is enough to crank up the engine for 15-20 seconds. The lift pump will send the fuel through the fuel lines and to the injection pump. But, if the engine doesn't have a lift pump, you will need to turn the bleeder valve a couple of times and pump the primer valve. You need to wait until you see the air bubbles come out of the system. 

But, the best way to avoid this is if you properly maintain your truck and keep it filled with diesel. Also what is worth knowing is that every time the fuel filter is changed it has to be primed. Stay with us, while we cover this topic from top to bottom. 

How to Prime a Duramax After Running Out of Fuel

As we said, priming a Duramax is a really straightforward job. In some other diesel fuel systems, there are several air-bleed screws. In those cases, you need to let the air get out through them all. In Duramax systems, old and new, this process is simple.

Take Precautions Before Beginning

Before you even start this process, add fresh diesel. Trying to start the engine without fuel can damage the fuel system. Also, check for an external fuel leak. If you notice drops of fuel under the car you will have to find a leak spot. A good thing to do is to check the fuel filter. If it is clogged, you will need to change and prime it.

Finding the Priming Pump and the Fuel Filter

Now, when you checked for all the possible problems, you can add the fuel. Fuel quantity is not that relevant. You will need some fuel so you can start the car and head to the nearest fuel station. 

If you have a Duramax without the lift pump you will need to find the priming pump. Lift the hood and look over on the left-hand side. Find the battery, and on the right, you will see the priming pump.

If you suspect a problem with the fuel filter you should also check it. Removing the inner fender liner from the front right wheel is the easiest way to reach it. You can access the filter from there easily. The filter is usually black or blue; you cannot miss it.

To remove the fuel filter head you need to unscrew it. But, if you are sure that the filter is fine, leave it well alone. Again, in some cases, fuel flow can be obstructed by a clogged filter. It can easily cause fuel starvation. Then you will experience how fuel stops and the engine loses power.

Preparing the System for Priming

You will need a flat-head screwdriver to lose the bleeder screw. These screws are often badly made and worn. If you notice this, replace the old screw with a new one made of aluminum. Be prepared to pump the priming pump for 5-10 minutes.

Priming the System

Lose the bleed screw just a bit. Start pressing the priming pump. Continue pressing until you see air bubbles come out through the screw. It can take a while, so be persistent. If you leave any air in the system, the car will have problems starting. In some cases, it won't start at all. 

Diesel fuel runs at very high pressure, and air or obstruction in the system will cause many problems for the engine. The engine will not receive sufficient fuel. The fuel pump will work but you will have a problem with questionable fuel delivery.

Now we covered the priming of the Duramax engine that doesn't have the lift pump. If your truck has a lift pump, it is enough to crank the engine for 15 to 20 seconds. The pump will do its job, and push the fuel through the system. The air will leave and you will not have to worry about complicated bleeding air processes.

Check Out Priming Fuel 6.6 Duramax:

Starting the Engine and Checking for Success

You can start the car once you see that all the air has left the system. If there is no fuel filter message on the dashboard and the fuel level is okay, you are good to go.

Tips For Priming a Duramax Engine

Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping your truck working. That way, you will avoid problems with the fuel system.

If there is a fuel system problem, it is good to know the exact symptoms. When you can detect and understand the symptoms, you can avoid major problems.

Having a Spare Fuel Filter on Hand

It is good to have a spare fuel filter when priming the fuel system. You should change it if it is old, clogged, or worn. The recommended interval for changing the fuel filter on diesel engines is every 5,000 miles.

Know The Different Warning Signs Of A Fuel System 

The most common problem with the fuel system is leaks. A couple of spots on the fuel lines are susceptible to cracking. From there, fuel can leak, and air can enter the system. In that case, you must bleed air out of the system.

There can also be problems with the other elements of the fuel system. If you notice problems with stalling, misfiring, or fuel consumption, check the fuel pump and the injectors. When a problem is already developed, you may even have a problem starting a car. That is why you shouldn't leave these symptoms unchecked. 

Regular Maintenance to Prevent Fuel System Issues

Duramax fuel system can be tricky. The most common problems are the high-pressure fuel pump, leaky fuel lines, and clogged filters. Replace all the filters regularly, and use quality fuel. If you decide to tune up your truck, add a lift pump. The stock high-pressure fuel pump will not deliver enough fuel. A tuned engine will cause fuel starvation, lowering the truck's performance.

Always pay attention to the fuel you add. It is recommended to use additives. You can also use biodiesel in your Duramax. With it, you will not lose performance and run your truck on cleaner fuel. 

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Priming a Duramax Engine

Low Fuel Pressure

Several issues can cause low fuel pressure. The clogged fuel filter and air in the fuel are the most common. If there is air in the fuel, the most common signs are problems with accelerating and frequent engine misfires. 

Air in the Fuel Lines

Cracks in the fuel lines are a sure way to get air in the fuel lines. Stock fuel lines have questionable quality. It is wise to replace them when you get a chance. Upgraded fuel lines are a bit thicker and harder to install but will last longer.

Faulty Priming Pump

If there are problems with the priming pump, the first signal is usually a check engine light. If you notice a loss of power or have a hard time starting the engine, that can point to a faulty priming pump. All these symptoms can be connected with several components. That is why you should also inspect the priming pump to avoid problems with priming the system.

FAQs

What are the signs of an airlock in the diesel fuel system

The most common symptoms of air in the fuel system are:

-Problems with acceleration

-The car won't start

-Engine misfires

-Problems with running on idle

-Stalling of the engine.

How frequently do you prime a diesel engine?

You must prime a diesel engine every time you change the fuel filter. An empty fuel tank is a second reason to prime a diesel engine.

Do modern vehicles with diesel engines need to be primed if they run out of diesel?

To prime a modern diesel vehicle you need to crank the engine. Leave it like that for 15-20 seconds and start the engine. You may need to redo the process, but it is as simple as it gets.

Final Considerations

Running out of fuel is a mishap that you should avoid. But, if it happens it is not the end of the world. You need a bit of fuel, and you can prime the system. When you prime the system you can go to the fuel pump and fill the tank.

If there are no other problems with the fuel system, priming is simple for all Duramax engines. Modern Duramax diesel engines you can prime by simply cranking the engine. If you have a Duramax without the lift pump, you must lose the bleeding screw and push the primer pump. Wait for the air bubbles to come out, and you are good to go. For further mechanical bits of advice, stay with us!

2023-06-05T21:02:11Z dg43tfdfdgfd