Replacing Fuel Pump In 2006 Colorado: Step-By-Step Guide

Changing the fuel pump in your 2006 Chevrolet Colorado is a moderately complicated job best performed at a dealership's service department. The fuel pump is located inside your fuel tank and has a small electric motor to ensure that pressurised gasoline flows to the engine to power the vehicle. There are two predominant methods for replacing the fuel pump: removing the bed or dropping the fuel tank. The latter is a significant undertaking but can be done at home by a novice with limited to no mechanical abilities in just a couple of hours. However, it is important to take all necessary precautions to prevent a fire when working with the fuel system.

Disconnect the battery

Disconnecting the battery in a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado is a simple task that can be completed in just a few steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it safely and effectively:

Park the Vehicle and Turn Off the Engine:

Before beginning any work on your Chevrolet Colorado, it is essential to ensure that the vehicle is securely parked and the engine is turned off. This is a critical safety precaution to avoid any accidental startups or movements of the vehicle during the battery disconnection process.

Wear Protective Gear:

Working with automotive batteries can be hazardous due to the presence of corrosive acids and the risk of electrical sparks. It is crucial to prioritize your safety by wearing protective gear, such as eye protection and gloves, to shield yourself from any potential hazards.

Locate the Battery:

The battery in the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado is typically located in the engine compartment. Open the hood of the vehicle and identify the battery, which is a rectangular unit with two terminals (positive and negative). Make sure you can easily access the battery terminals.

Disconnect the Negative Cable First:

Using the appropriate size wrench or socket, loosen the nut that secures the negative battery cable (usually marked with a "-" sign) to the negative terminal of the battery. Once it is loose, carefully detach the cable from the terminal. Be cautious not to let the cable fall back onto the terminal, as this could create a short circuit.

Secure the Negative Cable:

After disconnecting the negative cable, make sure to secure it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. You can use a cable tie or any other suitable method to ensure the cable does not touch the battery terminal.

Disconnect the Positive Cable:

Now, move on to the positive battery cable (marked with a "+" sign). Again, use the correct size wrench or socket to loosen the nut securing the cable to the positive terminal. Detach the cable from the terminal, being mindful not to let it fall back onto the terminal.

Ensure No Contact Between Cables and Terminals:

At this point, both the positive and negative battery cables should be disconnected. Ensure that the cables are not touching any part of the battery terminals. You can use cable ties or similar means to keep them separated.

Store the Battery Safely:

If you are replacing the battery or need to remove it for any reason, make sure to handle it with care. Automotive batteries can be quite heavy, so lift it with a secure grip and place it in a safe location away from open flames or sparks.

Follow Safety Precautions:

When working with automotive batteries, it is crucial to adhere to safety precautions. Always shield your eyes, avoid leaning over the battery, and never expose the battery to open flames or sparks. If battery acid contacts your skin or eyes, flush the area immediately with water and seek medical help.

By following these steps, you will be able to safely and effectively disconnect the battery in your 2006 Chevrolet Colorado. Remember to exercise caution and refer to your vehicle's service manual or seek professional assistance if you have any doubts or concerns.

Remove the fuel pump relay

To remove the fuel pump relay from a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado, follow these steps:

Firstly, locate the fuse box and pull the fuel pump relay from it. Then, start the vehicle and let it run until it shuts down by itself. This will relieve the gas pressure in the line and the pump. It is important to ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, free from any heat sources, sparks, open flames, and never smoke while working around fuel sources.

Next, you will need to lift the truck using the appropriate lifting points and place it on jack stands in the manufacturer's recommended locations, ensuring that the ground is level. If you don't have access to a lift, use four jack stands and lift the entire truck, rather than just the rear end.

Now, you can move on to removing the fuel filler neck from the tank. This can be a little tricky as the fuel filler neck is in a difficult position to access. On the driver's side of the tank, above the frame, you will find the fuel filler neck. Use a stubby flat-head screwdriver to loosen the hose clamp, and the fuel filler neck should come off fairly easily.

At this point, you can disconnect the fuel tank lines. Go to the passenger side of the tank and start by disconnecting the vapor line from the charcoal overflow tank. Then, disconnect the larger supply line. These two lines have similar connectors that you'll need to squeeze at the base to release. Be prepared for some spilled fuel when removing these lines. Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.

The next step is to disconnect the power lines to the fuel pump. There are two quick-release electrical plugs on top of the fuel tank that need to be disconnected.

Now, you are ready to remove the gas tank straps and lower the tank. Use a 15 mm socket and ratchet with a long extension to remove the straps. For the rear strap, you may need an assistant to hold the tank while you remove it, as it will be heavy. Alternatively, you can use a hydraulic floor jack to support the tank and lower it carefully.

Once the tank is on the floor, you can proceed to remove the fuel pump itself by disconnecting the lines and turning the locking ring counter-clockwise. Pull up on the pump to remove the entire module.

Relieve fuel line pressure

To relieve the fuel line pressure of a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado, follow these steps:

First, pull the fuel pump relay from the fuse box. Then, start the vehicle and let it run until it shuts down by itself. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area, free of any heat sources, sparks, and open flames. Do not smoke while working around fuel sources.

Lift the truck

Lifting your truck is an essential step in accessing the fuel tank and pump, and it's important to do it safely and securely. Here's a detailed guide on how to lift your truck, specifically focusing on the process for a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado.

Preparation:

Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary tools and a safe, level workspace. You'll need vehicle jacks, jack stands, and possibly a socket wrench, a torque wrench, and a lug wrench. It's also recommended to have a pry bar, a hammer, and some WD-40 for removing old parts. Additionally, work in a well-ventilated area, free from heat sources, sparks, and open flames.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Remove the negative battery cable.
• Loosen the lug nuts on your tires to make wheel removal easier once the truck is lifted.
• Use the jack and jack stands to carefully raise the truck. Ensure the vehicle's center of gravity is secure. Take your time with this step and follow the manufacturer's recommended lifting points and locations. If you don't have access to a lift, use four jack stands and lift the entire truck, not just the rear end.
• Remove the wheels and tires and set them aside safely.
• Remove the old U-bolts, shocks, and springs.
• Prepare the new bolts, shocks, and suspension components as per the instructions in your lift kit.
• Use a torque wrench to tighten all pieces and bolts securely, following the provided instructions.
• Attach your old tires or, if desired, install a new set of larger tires.
• Lower the truck slowly and carefully, keeping it as level as possible as it approaches the ground.
• Depending on the scale of your lift modifications, you may need to install additional components, such as a longer driveshaft or a new transfer case.
• Before taking your truck off-road, consider scheduling a service appointment to have your work inspected for added precaution.

Remember, always refer to the instruction manual included with your lift kit for the most accurate and vehicle-specific instructions. Additionally, if you're unsure about any part of the process, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.

Remove the fuel filler neck

To remove the fuel filler neck from a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado, follow these steps:

First, locate the fuel filler neck by opening the fuel door. Then, remove the mounting screws or bolts attached to the cutaway. Now, remove the fuel filler cap cable from the fuel neck and set it aside. Next, you will need to locate and lower the fuel tank. Place a transmission jack or similar jack under the fuel tank and loosen and remove the straps to the tank, lowering it slightly.

Now, you can disconnect the harness from the connector. Reach up to the top of the fuel tank and feel for the harness attached to the tank. This is the harness for the fuel pump or sending unit on older vehicles. Lower the fuel tank a little more to reach the vent hose attached to the tank. Remove the clamp and small vent hose to allow more clearance.

You are now ready to remove the fuel filler neck. Remove the clamp on the rubber hose attaching the fuel filler neck and twist the neck, pulling it out of the rubber hose. Guide the neck out of the area and remove it from the vehicle.

Note: If you need to remove the fuel tank for more clearance, be sure to transfer any fuel out of the tank first. It is best to have the vehicle at a quarter tank of fuel or less when removing the fuel filler neck.

Frequently asked questions