Check Fuel Pressure
Every engine needs a certain amount of fuel pressure in order to run, and not all engines are the same. Since the orifice in the injectors is so small (in order to atomize the fuel as it sprays it into the cylinder), the gas has to be built up with enough pressure to push past the injectors and into the cylinders. Different engines have different injectors, and therefore different fuel pressure requirements. One thing to note is that "Vapor Lock" is not possible on a fuel injected engine because of the higher pressures in the fuel lines, the fuel is not able to start boiling. Since every engine is different, you need to know the fuel pressure specification for the fuel system on your vehicle. You will also need a fuel pressure test kit, which includes a gauge, and some other fittings. It is important to get the whole kit in order to do certain tests on all vehicles. You will also need a rag to catch the few drops of gas that might spill out while you attach the gauge.
Most engines have a fuel pressure test port, that looks like the Schroeder valve on your vehicle's tire. They are usually located on the top of the engine with a little valve cap screwed on them. If your engine does not have this fitting, and it is a fuel injected engine, then you will need to use the contents of your kit to plumb into one of the fittings on your fuel system. If you have to actually take the fuel line loose,hereis information on how to do that. You will also need more than just a rag to catch the gas, if you have to take a fitting loose.
Now you know the fuel pressure specification and have your fuel pressure test gauge hooked to the engine, now try to crank the engine. If the engine starts then monitor the fuel pressure at idle, and compare to specifications. When you hit the gas, the fuel pressure should rise to the high side of the range of fuel pressure. If it does not raise then you could have a fuel pressure regulator type of problem. If it is generally low, then you may even have a clogged fuel filter.
You can also test for leaking injectors by pressurizing the system and individually firing each injector and looking for a tiny drop in fuel pressure. This can be done with a jumper wire, but is not recommended for any type of beginner who is reading an article like this. Anyways, once you have verified that the fuel pressure is within specification, then you can rule out any kind of fuel pressure problems. If the range is off, then there are problems that need to be addressed, before the engine will run right.
