I purchased a 97 Range Rover 4.0 today, the good: good body, paint and interior the bad: after owning for less than 2 hours, wont start. I have fuel at the rail, it attempts to start and dies. I know this is a Discovery site, I have one of those too. I am so furious and at a loss of words. Paid $2100 previous owner replied earlier and now nothing. I was told its a fuel pump, is this an easy fix if its the issue?

 

If you have fuel at the rail it's not your pump. Start with the basics.

 

Yes the fuel pump is a easy fix IF that is the issue.

 

First, we have forums on this site for Range Rovers as well. You are welcome here. As you may know, the Rover tech manuals are available for free download, they are called the RAVE, and link is below.

When you checked fuel at the schrader valve on the rail, did you just squirt it or did you get a PSI reading? Would expect on the order of 32 - 34 PSI. Could have fuel filter, fuel pump, or fuel regulator issues. But pump may shut down if engine is not running at rpm needed when cranked.

One sensor that can kill cranking is the Crankshaft Position sensor. But normally it will throw codes, and just not start at all. So you'll need to check for fuel and spark. Couple of pages attached from RAVE.

 

Sadly enough it happened at a Walmart. I had what I call a normal spray at the valve ( fuel ), I apologize in advance for not posting this in RR area but, I have always had good feedback using this medium.

 

See if you have spark. If it is a 24 hour Wal Mart, there is food, restroom, warmth, and even some auto parts inside. Better there than middle of the trail under the moonlit sky..

 

She wants to start, almost fires over then nothing...

 

How many miles? Are you getting spark?

 

103K, I have to assume spark yes, she initially started then died and, continues to do so.

 

Could be a weak pump or intermittent short to the fuel pump. You'll probably have to wait for disco mike or Antichrist to give you better info for now. Sorry Wyn.