I think I have a fuel system issue. Run normally, then starts stumbling, no power, ultimately stalls, then can limp home.

Right now I am going with failing/failed fuel pump (or pressure regulator as that is integrated into the pump, right?

To start troubleshooting, I want to put a fuel pressure gauge on the system and see what I get.

When my son and I rebuilt the engine like 6 years ago, I recall the fuel rail having a schraeder pressure test port (also shown in RAV).

Is it "hidden" under the intake manifold?

Can you hook up a gauge to it via "braille", i.e., feeling it on?

Or do you need to pull the intake manifold?

And if I do need a pump, any recommendations (Bosch or something cheaper? where to buy one?)

 

It’s on the drivers side just under the intake manifold. It’s a really tight fit but you can get to it. I recall having to move some items out of the way like wire harnesses etc but you can access without removing the manifold.

 

That's what I needed to know. Thanks.

 

BTW, the beast has died completely, no more starting at all, so going now with diagnosis of a failing fuel pump that finally gave it up entirely.

Left my daughter who was using it while visiting. Had to tow it home with no power or brake assist for about 20 miles thru hills -- the sucker is heavy and really build up momentum on 10% grades, My right leg is now 25% bigger than my left leg. Did the old defenders have power assist or not?

Getting pressure gauge on the fuel rail today if I can get my big-ish hands in there.

The pump should run and system pressurize at cranking right? and keep running for 30 seconds after stopping.

And before I pull up carpet and all that to access the, is the pressure regulator built into the lid of the pump or can it be replaced independent of the pump itself?

And2, any recommendations of a decent pump other than the top-of-line Bosch?

(I went Bosch on MAF, lasted almost 6 years, when it finally failed I replaced with a cheapo, lasted about 6 months, so back to Bosch.)

 

I put in a Bosch a couple of years ago with no issues. It was pretty reasonably priced from Rock Auto.