I have a 1995 6.5L diesel engine that dies going down the road with no warnings at all. Diesel mechanics tell me it is some kind of computer in the diesel pump and will cost $1500 to fix. I would be foolish to spend this kind of money on a truck with the kind of miles it has on it, so I am going to drive it till it quits for good. The diesel mechanics tell me it is a common problem. I was wondering if it is possible to wire around the computer on a truck like this. I know it can be done, but is it practicle? I am an experienced mechanic myself, but do not know much about computer systems. However, if the truck no longer runs, what can I hurt?? I don't really like computers anyway! Any suggestions or comments are greatly appreciated.



1995 Chevrolet 6.5 diesel 2x4 3/4 ton
regular cab automatic transmission pickup truck.

Yes it might be but not always. Hows that for a direct answer.
First of all WELCOME to the PLACE. Next PLEASE fill out your signature with your truck info so we all may know what you/we are talking about.
Now you problem may very well be a PMD thats failing, You can use the search feature to find out about this known problem and fix.
Also Check into the lift pump/OPS failures and be sure to check those out on your truck

All too familiar problem sounds like. Before changing a whole bunch of parts that may be perfectly okay, check out the FAQ thread on this forums sticky note at the top. FAQ link is below on my signature line for quick reference.

Once you've completed the lift pump test (http://dieselplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=39350), read up on the PMD (http://dieselplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=39436), and see what is failing you. $1500 is what they may be quoting you for a whole injection pump - something that may not be needed just yet.

Read up, post back, update signature, we'll be here waitin' to help :)

Sorry, new to site and don't know how to make a signature yet.

While driving down the road, engine dies and SES light comes on. Just replaced the PMD. Lift pump is in good shape because that is how I bleed the fuel filter. Engine starts good when its cold, even after sitting overnight. Once the engine dies, you have to turn key off and go back through starting procedure (glow plugs). When engine starts, it blows black smoke from the exhaust. I do not believe pump is bad because it starts too good when it is cold, does this sound reasonable?

1995 6.5L diesel Chevy 3/4 ton 2x4 automatic tranny

Signature is made in User CP, near upper left of screen.

Since it's a 95, check out the codes. Only requires paperclip to check. Go to Kennedydiesel.com - tech tips - 6.5 - read codes. The listing of what the code numbers means follows the instructions of how to get them.

Let us know.

wow, neat trick! Here's what I came up with after running the test.

"DTC 17 - High Resolution Circuit Fault
DTC 18 - Pump Cam Reference Pulse Error
DTC 19 - Crankshaft Position Reference Error
DTC 35 - Injection Pulse Width Error (Response Time Short)
DTC 54 PCM fuel circuit error
DTC 78 - Turbo Wastegate Solenoid Fault"