Code 43 Fuel Delivery diagnosis

I've gone through all the postings regarding the notorious Code 43 and
fuel delivery diagnosis to no avail. Our 1990 Accord EX goes over a
mountain pass at high speed daily so anything in the 15 year-old-tank
is swishing around. I recently changed the fuel filter (did it two
years ago as well ) with a Wix/Napa brand filter with no problems,
cleared the computer, and then a day later got the Engine Light and
code 43 again. The car hesitates during a cold start for a few seconds
and then catches, but once it has started for the day, there is no
problem. This will happen on cold, coastal foggy mornings or hot
afternoons so the main relay shouldn't be an issue. Only when there is
time for fuel pressure to drop do we get this difficult starting, i.e.
when the car is parked overnight. I would like to test the fuel
pressure on the fuel rail using the 6mm (1.0 pitch) service bolt above
the banjo bolt but I cannot find a consumer model fuel pressure tester
that can fit the metric port (tried Kragen, AutoZone, Sears, Napa,
Parts Plus, and local shops). Local hardware stores have all the 100
psi gauges but plumbing and gas stuff is all SAE inches. There is a B&M
gauge for those that modify cars but it seems to be a permanently
mounted fuel gauge versus a diagnostic tool. How can one affordably
test fuel pressure on the Honda Accord? I've inspected the lines inside
the engine compartment and superficially under the car and I see nor
smell anything that would indicate a leak. Any suggestions in trying to
diagnose the anomolous Code 43? When Honda fuel pumps begin to go do
they die slowly (over 3-4 months of daily driving)? Thanks in advance
for any suggestions.

Cheers, JG

 

You dont have to leave it in, just spin it on to find out your pressures
and the put the "plug" bolt back in the filter banjo bolt.

-Pete