2004 z71 Tahoe Flex Fuel Pump

[redz71]

Hello All, I have a 2004 z71 Tahoe with the 5.3L flex fuel model. Occasionally after I have been driving for awhile the truck will randomly stall out and kill itself. The idle get rough and drops to about 200 rpm. I let the truck sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, the truck will start back up fine and off you go. I will start with changing the fuel filter. Then will have the fuel pressure checked to determine if it is the fuel pump. I fear my fuel pump may be going out since I am at 110K miles and people say they commonly go out between a 100K to 130k. Maybe the fuel filter is clogging. My question is should this be the case, is there an access panel from the top, to the fuel pump or does this have to be the usual drop the tank method? Thank you

 

[fergmonster]

Not sure on the tank method you are asking for but here is my two cents on your issue.
If you are losing pressure at the fuel rail "intermittently" it is probably the fuel pump. If you have pressure at the rail it is likely an ignition problem. Maybe an ignition relay- Could even be an issue with the VTD Vehicle Theft Deterrent system. Check for that fuel pressure 1st.

 

[WickedGoat]

As far as I know, there is no access from inside the interior to get to the fuel pump. So do yourself a favor if you are doing it yourself... Get as much fuel out of the tank as you can to make lowering it easier on you. Also, remove the EVAP box before dropping the tank or you'll break one of the lines on it. Check fuel pressure at idle and engine off to see if in spec.