GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

If the diesel engine stalls and you think that you've run out of fuel, do this:

Caution: Diesel fuel is flammable. It could start a fire if it gets on hot engine parts. You could be burned. Do not let too much fuel flow from the air bleed valve, and wipe up any spilled fuel with a cloth.

To restart your engine:

  1. If you're parked on a level surface, add at least two gallons of fuel. However, if you're parked on a slope, you may need to add up to five gallons of fuel.
  2. Follow the fuel priming procedure earlier in this section to prime the fuel filter.
  3. Close the air bleed valve.
  4. Turn the ignition key to START for 10 to 15 seconds at a time until your engine starts. If the engine tries to run, but does not run smoothly, increase the rpm a little using the accelerator pedal. This will help force air through the system.