Jim Grant's Tech Tips
'93 Chevy Blazer 4.3 Vortec, Leaking Fuel Injection System
Q:
The CPI/fuel injector unit on my ‘93 Chevy Blazer is leaking fuel
making the truck run rough and smell. I understand this is common with
Vortec's. The dealer wants $500 for the part. Where can I buy an aftermarket
part? ...Andy Gallante
A:
The problem you’re describing has been the black plague to many a
GM owner. It is such a common problem that our GM supplier stocks over
80 of the fuel injection units at all times. Until recently, the only
replacement part available was from GM. Now, there are aftermarket replacements
available. But guess what? They’re GM units just in different boxes.
Surprisingly the pricing isn’t much different either. The troubling
part is that the whole fuel injection unit doesn’t have to be replaced.
The component that fails is the fuel pressure regulator. The pressure
regulator has a diaphragm that cracks allowing unmetered fuel to enter
the intake manifold. The word out on the repair street is that a replacement
pressure regulator is going to become available. When ? I have not a clue.
In the mean time, operating a vehicle with a failing pressure regulator
is a good way to dramatically reduce/shorten the life of your vehicle’s
engine. Yes the replacement injection unit does hurt the check book, but
it is cheaper than a replacement engine and a fuel injection unit.
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