
When replacing a fuel pump, it's important to consider whether you can reuse the gas sock. The gas sock, also known as a fuel pump sock or strainer, is a crucial component in the fuel system, responsible for filtering out contaminants and ensuring the smooth flow of fuel. While some mechanics recommend replacing the gas sock with a new one to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues, others suggest that it may be possible to reuse the gas sock under certain circumstances. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence this decision and provide insights into the replacement process, offering valuable guidance for car enthusiasts and mechanics alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you reuse the gas sock when replacing the fuel pump? | No, you need to replace the gas sock/strainer |
| Parts needed | New screws, washers, rubber gasket, retaining clip, retaining washer |
| Tools needed | 17mm socket, scissors, 8oz ball-peen hammer, Marvel's Mystery Oil (or something compatible with gasoline) |
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What You'll Learn

Disconnect the battery and remove the gas cap to release pressure
Disconnecting the battery and removing the gas cap to release pressure is the first step in replacing the fuel pump sock/strainer. This is a crucial step as it ensures your safety and prevents any potential hazards.
To disconnect the battery, locate the negative terminal, which is usually marked with a minus (-) sign. Use an appropriate-sized wrench or socket to loosen the nut securing the cable to the terminal. Once loosened, carefully detach the cable. Make sure you do not touch any metal surfaces or components that may be live.
Removing the gas cap is straightforward. Simply twist it counterclockwise until it comes off. By doing this, you release the pressure built up in the fuel system, reducing the risk of fuel spray or leakage during the replacement process.
It is important to note that you should not reuse the washers and screws when replacing the fuel pump sock/strainer. Corrosion and damage can occur over time, so it is recommended to use new parts to ensure a secure and reliable connection. Additionally, when dealing with fuel system components, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, to safeguard against any potential hazards.
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Remove the middle seats
To replace the fuel pump sock/strainer, you will need to remove the middle seats. There are four 14mm bolts that need to be removed for each seat.
You will also need to disconnect the battery and remove the gas cap to release pressure.
Then, using a 17mm socket, remove the banjo bolt. There will be two washers that will need to be replaced. Do not reuse these parts.
Next, move the rubber hose and connections to the side and carefully remove the entire pump assembly. You may have to twist 30 degrees each way to remove it, but take care not to bend the float wire or your gauge will be incorrect.
Now, turn your attention to the bottom of the fuel pump where the sock/strainer is. Remove the rubber gasket and retaining clip. The old one is black, but the new retaining clip is silver. Gently remove the sock/strainer.
The hardest part is installing the new sock/filter. Brute force doesn't work, and you don't want to break the plastic, so lube the area with a little Marvel's Mystery Oil (or something compatible with gasoline) and gently tap it in with an 8oz ball-peen hammer.
Finally, secure with the new (silver) retaining washer and install the new rubber gasket.
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Remove the banjo bolt
To remove the banjo bolt, you will need a 17mm socket. There will be two washers that will need to be replaced. Don't reuse these parts. You will also need to use new screws and washers if they are corroded.
To replace the fuel pump sock, you will first need to disconnect the battery and remove the gas cap to release pressure. Then, remove the middle seats. There are four 14mm bolts that need to be removed for each seat. Next, remove the rubber gasket. You can cut it off with scissors since you will be replacing it anyway. Turn your attention to the bottom of the fuel pump where the sock/strainer is. Remove the rubber gasket and retaining clip. The old one is black, but the new retaining clip is silver. Gently remove the sock/strainer.
Installing the new sock/filter can be difficult. Brute force is not recommended, as it may break the plastic. Instead, lube the area with a little Marvel's Mystery Oil (or something compatible with gasoline) and gently tap it in with an 8oz ball-peen hammer. Secure with the new (silver) retaining washer. Install the new rubber gasket. It will only attach one way, as the little rubber prongs will match specific holes on the back plate.
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Remove the rubber gasket
When replacing the fuel pump sock/strainer, you will need to remove the rubber gasket. This can be done by cutting it off with scissors, as it will be replaced with a new one anyway. The old gasket is black, while the new one is silver. The new gasket only attaches one way, as the rubber prongs will match specific holes on the back plate.
Before removing the gasket, you will need to disconnect the battery and remove the gas cap to release pressure. You will also need to remove the middle seats, which are secured by 4 x 14mm bolts.
Once the gasket is removed, you can turn your attention to the bottom of the fuel pump where the sock/strainer is located. Gently remove the sock/strainer, taking care not to bend the float wire.
It is important to note that some parts, such as washers, should not be reused as they may be corroded.
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Installing the new sock/filter
Before you get to this stage, you'll need to disconnect the battery and remove the gas cap to release pressure. Then, remove the middle seats. There are 4 x 14mm bolts that need to be removed for each seat. Next, using a 17mm socket, remove the banjo bolt. There will be two washers that need to be replaced. You should also use new screws and washers if the old ones are corroded. Move the rubber hose and connections to the side and carefully remove the entire pump assembly. You may have to twist 30 degrees each way to remove it, but take care not to bend the float wire or your gauge will be incorrect.
Turn your attention to the bottom of the fuel pump where the sock/strainer is. Remove the rubber gasket and retaining clip. The old one is black, but the new retaining clip is silver. Gently remove the sock/strainer.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you should not reuse the gas sock. You should also replace the washers and screws, as they may be corroded.
You can cut the rubber gasket with scissors, then gently remove the sock/strainer.
Installing the new sock/filter is the hardest part. Brute force is not recommended, as it may break the plastic. Instead, you should lube the area with a little Marvel's Mystery Oil (or something compatible with gasoline) and gently tap it in with an 8oz ball-peen hammer.
You will need to replace the rubber gasket and the retaining clip. The old retaining clip is black, but the new one is silver. You will also need to replace the washers and screws.











































