Replacing Fuel Pump In 2001 Chevy Blazer: Step-By-Step Guide

To replace the fuel pump on a 2001 Chevrolet Blazer, you will need to jack up the vehicle, remove the straps holding the tank, and disconnect all electrical and fuel connections. You may need an extra pair of hands to drop the tank. Once the tank is out, turn the ring holding the sending unit and replace the pump. Some people have opted to cut a hole above the fuel pump inside the truck to replace the pump, but this is not recommended.

Jack up the car and empty the tank as much as possible

Jacking up your car is a necessary step to access the fuel tank and pump, but it can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Here is a detailed guide on how to jack up your car and empty the fuel tank:

Jacking Up the Car:

• Find a Safe Location: Park your car on a stable, flat, and level surface, away from traffic and potential hazards. A concrete driveway or garage floor is ideal.
• Secure Your Vehicle: Ensure the engine is off, the car is in "Park," and the parking brake is engaged. For added safety, block the tire opposite the corner you'll jack up with a brick, wood piece, or large rock.
• Locate the Jack and Jacking Points: The jack is typically stored in the trunk or rear of the vehicle. Refer to your owner's manual to locate the jacking points, which are reinforced metal ribs designed to safely lift the vehicle. They are usually located under the car's rocker panels, near the front and rear wheels.
• Position the Jack: Place the jack under the jacking point, ensuring it is properly aligned and facing the correct direction. Refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on jack placement and operation.
• Jack Up the Car: Turn the jack handle clockwise slowly until the desired corner of the car is lifted off the ground. Ensure the jack remains straight and stable during this process.
• Use Jack Stands: If you plan to work under the vehicle, place jack stands under the rocker panels to support the weight. Do not rely solely on the jack to support the car.

Emptying the Fuel Tank:

There are several methods to empty the fuel tank, but some may not be applicable to all vehicles. Here are a few common approaches:

• Use a Hose: Insert a hose into the tank and suck on the other end to start the fuel flow. Then, transfer the fuel to a container. This method is straightforward but carries a risk of inhaling toxic fumes or ingesting fuel.
• Compressed Air System: Connect an air compressor, a fuel tank adapter, and a fuel line. Once set up, start the compressor, and the pressure will force the fuel out of the tank.
• Manual Pump: Connect a manual pump, a fuel tank adapter, and a fuel line. Start the pump to force fuel out of the tank, and collect it in a container.
• Direct Drainage: Locate the drain plug near the bottom of the fuel tank. Use a wrench to loosen the plug, and fuel will start to drain out. Have a wide-mouthed container ready to catch the fuel.

Note: Always exercise extreme caution when working with fuel. Ensure proper ventilation and take steps to avoid inhaling fumes or coming into contact with fuel.

Loosen the straps holding the tank up

To loosen the straps holding the tank up, you will need to jack up your 2001 Chevy Blazer. Ensure that you do this on level ground and use jack stands to support the vehicle. Once the Blazer is securely jacked up, crawl underneath and locate the straps. You will need to remove the bolts holding the straps in place, so have your tools ready.

It is important to note that these bolts may be rusted, especially if you live in an area where salt is used on the roads during winter. If the bolts are spinning but not backing out, you may need to wedge a screwdriver between the frame and the fuel tank strap to gain purchase. Alternatively, you could try making a custom tool by getting the correct size box end and bending it to shape, or cutting the strap and removing the tank to access the bolt and speed nut.

Once the bolts are loosened, you can move on to the next step of dropping the fuel tank. It is recommended to have an assistant to help with this step and to lower the tank slowly to avoid any hoses getting caught.

Disconnect the electrical and fuel connections

Disconnecting the electrical and fuel connections is a crucial step in changing the fuel pump of a 2001 Chevrolet Blazer. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

First, jack up the vehicle and block it. Place a jack under the fuel tank; a transmission jack works best. If you live in an area where salt is used on the roads during winter, be extra cautious as you may need to replace brake lines if they crack. You may also crack metal fuel lines. It is advisable to empty the tank as much as possible.

Next, loosen the straps holding the tank in place. Then, slowly lower the tank enough so that you can reach over and disconnect the fuel and electrical lines. You may need two people to drop the tank. Once the tank is out, clean the top of the tank and remove the ring holding the sending unit in. The pump is attached to the sending unit.

At this point, you have successfully disconnected the electrical and fuel connections. You can now proceed to replace the fuel pump.

Remove the tank

To remove the tank of a 2001 Chevrolet Blazer, you will need to empty the tank as much as possible. Jack up the truck and loosen the straps holding the tank in place. Undo all electrical and fuel connections, and then drop the tank. It may take two people to do this.

With the tank out, turn the ring holding the sending unit in the top of the tank. The pump is attached to the sending unit.

Turn the ring holding the sending unit in the top of the tank

To turn the ring holding the sending unit in the top of the tank, you will need to have already jacked up your 2001 Chevy Blazer, loosened the straps holding the tank up, undone all electrical and fuel connections, and dropped the tank. This may take two people.

With the tank out, you will be able to turn the ring holding the sending unit in the top of the tank. The fuel pump is attached to the sending unit.

A lock ring is used to secure the fuel pump and maintain a leak-free seal. If a lock ring fails, it is usually caused by damage during removal. Heavy corrosion could also cause the fuel tank lock ring to lose pressure against the seal.

You can find a replacement lock ring at O'Reilly Auto Parts.

Frequently asked questions