Replacing The Fuel Pump In A 1999 Car: Step-By-Step Guide

Changing the fuel pump in a 1999 vehicle depends on the make and model of the car. For example, in a 1999 Ford Contour, the fuel pump can be accessed by removing the rear seat cushion. However, in a 1999 GMC Yukon, the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and a mechanic will need to access it through the top of the fuel tank or by removing the tank from the vehicle. In a 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis, the fuel pump sits in the gas tank and can be replaced without removing the tank.

The fuel pump is located in the fuel tank

To access the fuel pump, you will need to lower the fuel tank. This can be done by removing the rear seat cushion, which will provide access to the pump. However, the hole in the floor may be too small, and you may need to cut away at the floor to create more space to remove the fuel pump. It is important to be careful of the wiring harness and fuel lines when doing this.

Another way to access the fuel pump is by lowering the fuel tank. This can be a challenging task if you do not have a lift or support for the tank.

You will need to lower the fuel tank to replace the pump

To replace the fuel pump, you will need to lower the fuel tank. This process can be challenging and time-consuming, especially if you have a full gas tank, so it is important to take the necessary precautions and have the proper tools before beginning.

First, make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area to minimize the risk of fire and inhale harmful fumes. Wear safety gear, such as safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate clothing to protect yourself from fuel spills. It is also recommended to have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Next, relieve the fuel system pressure. This can be done by running the engine and pulling the fuel pump relay, which will cause the engine to stall. Alternatively, with the engine off, you can press the Schrader valve on the pressure line momentarily to release a small fuel spray.

Now, locate the fuel tank and prepare to remove it from the vehicle. If there is a significant amount of fuel in the tank, drain it into an approved container to reduce the risk of spills and make the tank lighter and easier to handle.

Use a jack to support the tank as you remove the fuel tank strap bolts and straps. Lower the tank just enough to access and disconnect the fuel hoses, electrical connections, and emissions hoses. Once everything is disconnected, you can lower the tank completely.

Before removing the old fuel pump, clean the area around the pump access hole to prevent dirt and debris from entering the tank. Then, remove the retainer ring or bolts securing the pump assembly and take out the old fuel pump and seal ring.

Install the new seal ring and fuel pump assembly, and use the jack to raise the tank so you can reconnect the fuel hoses, electrical connections, and emissions hoses. Reinstall the fuel tank straps and torque the mounting bolts to the specified tightness.

Finally, lower the vehicle, reconnect the negative battery cable, and fill the fuel tank as needed. Start the vehicle and double-check for any leaks.

You can access the pump by removing the rear seat cushion

To access the fuel pump by removing the rear seat cushion, you'll need to put on safety glasses and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. This is because fuel is flammable, and safety precautions are necessary. Next, disconnect the negative battery cable and relieve the fuel system pressure. You can refer to the factory repair information for the procedure to relieve the pressure.

Now, remove the rear seat cushion. In some models, you may need to remove the entire rear seat. Once the cushion is removed, you will see an access hole to the pump. The hole may be a little small, so you might need to cut away at the floor to make room for removing the fuel pump. However, be very careful of the wiring harness and fuel lines when doing so.

After that, disconnect the fuel hoses, electrical connections, and emissions hoses from the pump assembly. Clean the area around the pump access hole to prevent dirt and debris from entering the tank. Then, remove the retainer ring or bolts securing the pump assembly and take out the fuel pump and seal ring.

Finally, install the new seal ring and pump assembly, and reconnect the fuel hoses, electrical connections, and emissions hoses. Reinstall the rear seat cushion and reconnect the negative battery cable.

You will need to cut away at the floor to give yourself enough room to remove the fuel pump

To replace a fuel pump, you will need to remove the fuel tank. Place your car on jack stands, preferably on cement or pavement, and engage the parking brake. You may also want to put blocks of wood in front of the front tires for added safety.

Once the car is raised, you will need to remove the fuel tank straps. Spray them with a lubricant like WD-40 before attempting to remove them. Once the straps are removed, slowly lower the tank, checking regularly to make sure that no hoses are caught. As you lower the tank, push it gently towards the front of the car to separate the tank filler hose and vent hose from the car's metal piping.

Lower the tank as far as you can without risking a plastic hose breaking off the top. Then, proceed to remove the plastic hoses and electrical clip from the top of the tank.

Now, you will need to cut away at the floor to give yourself enough room to remove the fuel pump. This will involve using a cutting tool such as tin snips or a cut-off wheel to create an access panel in the floor of your car. This panel can be made of sheet metal or a material like fibreglass. Make sure to drill a few exploratory holes and use a borescope to ensure you don't accidentally cut into any fuel lines or the tank itself.

Once you have created the access panel, you can reach the fuel pump for removal and replacement.

Be careful of the wiring harness and the fuel lines

When replacing the fuel pump in a 1999 Ford Contour, it is important to be cautious and careful of the wiring harness and the fuel lines. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

Firstly, ensure you are wearing the appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses and gloves, and have a fire extinguisher nearby. Before beginning any work on the fuel pump, disconnect the negative battery terminal. This is a crucial step to prevent any accidental electrical discharge or sparks, which could be extremely hazardous when working with flammable liquids like fuel.

When accessing the fuel pump, you will need to remove the rear seat cushion. This will provide you with an access point to the pump. The hole in the floor may be a bit small, so you might need to cut away carefully at the floor to create more space for removing and installing the fuel pump. During this process, be extremely cautious of the wiring harness. Make sure you don't cut or damage any wires, as this could affect the fuel pump's functionality and your vehicle's electrical system.

Before disconnecting the fuel pump harness from the tank, carefully remove about a foot of the tape and black plastic conduit from the harness. Ensure that you do not accidentally disconnect the fuel pressure sensor connector while working on the harness. Once you have disconnected the harness, you can proceed to remove the fuel pump.

When working with the fuel lines, it is crucial to be extra cautious. Ensure that you squeeze the two tabs and lift the line to remove it. You will need to use a flat-head screwdriver and a small hammer to tap off the locking ring. Be gentle and avoid using excessive force to prevent any damage to the fuel lines or the surrounding components.

Always refer to the vehicle's repair manual or seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps or procedures. Safety should be your top priority when working on any vehicle, especially when dealing with electrical systems and fuel lines.

Frequently asked questions