MY 99 2500 has a strange problem , When you switch key to the run position but the engine has not started yet I used to be able to hear the lift pump run and the pressure gauge shows it building pressure. Noe I do not hear it run and no pressure is shown on fuel pressure gauge. When you crank it it starts right up and the gauge starts building pressure and usually goes up to 2 psi or 10 psi. and it runs fine. I can't figure out what is going on. I have switched out the fuel relay with no change and the #9 fuse is ok. so where do I go from here.?

 

That fuel pressure is too low. The best pressure for a VP44 is 15-18. There are a number of articles out there as to why. If you have an in-tank pump, loose it. Replace it with an external FASS or Airdog. You can use the original pickup location, but YOU MUST bypass or remove the in-tank pump, so you are not trying to pull through it. Draw straws ore okay but poses issues on a low fuel level. A sump pickup would be better.

 

the pump is controlled by the ECM. try bumping to the start position to see if it runs . also if you have the delayed wait to start light ( it should come on no matter the outside temp ) that's a sure sign of a failing ECM along with no lift pump till the ECM turns on.