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I have a 2004 Chev Suburban Z71. Every now and then, it just will not start. It turns over, but will not start. The problem seems to appear when the fuel guage gets down to about 1/4 to 1/3 full. When I add several gallons of gasoline, it starts.
The Dealer can't seem to identify the problem. Does anyone know what the problem may be??
Thanks.  

Could be the card on the side of fuel pump (seen many), just makes the fuel guage display wrong?? maybe you are emty...have also seen problems with checkball in pump,draining back, but would still run, causing crazy fuel trims.  

Thanks Facepuncher,
Doubt it is an empty tank situation. Since I am able to continue to drive after going below the 1/4 mark. Seems to happen when I stop and park overnight. I always thought that it may have something to do with the fuel tank/pump; since adding gasoline allowed me to start it even after several unsuccessful attempts before adding fuel.  

I would check fuel pressure first. If it is marginal it could cause your problem.

Gary  

Have you identified the problem? I am having the same issues with my 2002 1500 Suburban. Please let me know if you have fixed your problem.
Thanks.  

GM has had problems with thier sending units since 2000 year models. There is a TSB about this and you were probably out of gas.  

Sounds like a small fish and they never fry up good. You apear to know when it will happen. Don't let it hapen, you will need gas soon at anny rate.  

I experienced the same condition at 92000 miles.  The cause is failure of the fuel sending unit, which is mounted on the side of the pump housing.  The cure . . . a new fuel pump.  Since the truck is equipped to run on E85, a new pump is difficult to locate, and may only be available through a GM dealer for the tidy sum of $497.10.  Labor required is 3.5 hours at the applicable rate for your shop.

You will need to use another AC Delco part [#MU1379 . .  GM #88966963].  That part is the third iteration of the original pump used, so keep your fingers crossed that they got it right this time.  I obtained the correct pump on eBay from Conquest Automotive, a Texas supplier with an excellent rating.  The pump arrived in three days at a cost of $278.95, shipping included.  

Examining the old pump, it is obvious that the sending unit is the culprit.  I intend to carry the old pump as a backup . . . I don't want to spend a Winter in the middle of nowhere waiting for UPS to show up with my new pump.  Incidentally, I always do the same thing with radiator hoses and serpentine belt.  Its a Boy Scout thing!

It is very important to not run less than 1/4 tank of fuel in your vehicle, since the gasoline is the only thing that cools the pump.  It only takes a few minutes of running low on fuel to ruin a good pump . . . and you have to worry about walking home.    

Just a word of caution:  If your pump is acting up, replace it.  An unexpected failure can ruin your whole day, if not your vacation.  Incidentally, Honda fuel pumps fail also!

Hope this helps.  

Fill it up and trade it in. HAHA

Doesn't sound like Boy Scout knows what he is talking about but it sounds like he could be correct.

Good luck  

Anyone got an answer for this, I tried the Fuel Pump relay, but no joy.  I got an 04 Suburban with 70,000 Miles hopefully the fuel pump can outlast the mileage.  

I have a 03 Suburban with the Flex Fuel engine (takes E85 fuel).  I tried replacing the fuel filter, but no fix, it stalled the same day with a new filter and a full tank of gas.  If you check out a website called mycarstats.com you will find that suburbans have numerous problems.  I've had steering shaft, speedometer gauge, and now fuel gauge problems.  I've already had my instrument cluster replaced six months ago and now the fuel gauge just went bad on the new one right after I put a new filter on.  I love suburbans, but I'm getting tired of fixing this stuff all the time.  I've had issues with mine stalling for a year and a half now.  I'll be looking to replace the fuel pump.  

It looks to me as if Sirfile has positively identified this problem. The solution, a new fuel pump from Texas. GM must think these pumps are made out of gold.  

I am taking my suburban in this week to see if it's the fuel gauge or the pump.  People have complained of their gauge not working as well.  I'll let you know.