Check your dipstick to see if it smells like fuel. Sounds like bad /loose fuel pump
Thanks, will do!
You may have trash in the fuel tank partially blocking fuel flow. I recommend that you remove all of your fuel lines to check for crud, and pull the sending unit from the top of the tank and shine a light to see what is in the tank. There should be a sock on the end of the fuel pickup. It could be missing or clogged.
Checked for this unfortunately. I actually have a fuel filter in-line BEFORE the fuel pump because the type of fuel sending unit I have doesn't have a sock and there's no filter in the gas tank, as it's a below-the-bed aftermarket. Is it possible that the fuel filter could be causing the pressure difference? I've checked it during operation and it looks completely clean / full.
Jerry - Good point, I really should just test it the right way instead of 'backyard mechanic-ing' it.
Roy - Running a 180 thermo, brand new. It hits 180 fairly quick, stays there for about 15 minutes, and then slowly climbs to 200. Also did the gas cap off trick, hoping it was that. No dice
I'm still hung up on why the bubbles stop when I place a cold rag on the fuel pump or pour cold water on it, but I need to make sure everything else is in order anyways either way. So thanks for all the suggestions and input guys!
My Challenger's optimal running temp is ~212 but I was afraid 200 could possibly ruin an older engine. If it's ok for me to run at that temp, I'll just run through all these tests to get the fuel sorted first and also flush the system like Tiny and Jerry mentioned. Basically just run through everything you guys mentioned, step by step and if that doesn't fix it I'll buy a better pump!
Thanks again all, I should make a plaque for this truck that reads "Built with the help of <Insert Stovebolt forum names>".
