Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your 99 Ford Expedition: Step-By-Step Guide

If your 99 Ford Expedition is acting like it's not getting fuel, you may need to change the fuel pump. Before you do this, you should check the engine's fuel supply, spark plugs, and fuel pump relay. If you can hear the pump running, you may need to test your fuel rail with the engine running to get an accurate reading. If you need to change the fuel pump, you can follow these steps:

- Relieve the fuel system pressure

- Disconnect the negative battery cable

- Lift and support the vehicle

- Drain the fuel from the fuel tank

- Disconnect the fuel tank filler pipe vent hose from the fuel tank

- Disconnect the fuel pump connector

- Use a jack to support the fuel tank

- Remove the fuel tank skid plate (if equipped)

- Remove the fuel tank support straps

- Partially lower the fuel tank and disconnect the EVAP hoses

- Disconnect the safety clips from the fuel line

- Disconnect the fuel line from the fuel pump using a special tool

- Remove the fuel tank

- Reposition the fuel tank and connect the fuel line to the fuel pump

- Connect the safety clips to the fuel line

- Install the fuel tank support straps and fasteners, tightening to 40 ft-lb (54 Nm)

- If equipped, install the fuel tank skid plate and bolts, tightening to 40 ft-lb (54 Nm)

- Connect the fuel pump connector

- Connect the fuel tank filler pipe vent hose to the fuel tank

- Connect the negative battery cable

- Refill the fuel tank

Relieve fuel system pressure

To relieve fuel system pressure in a 1999 Ford Expedition, follow these steps:

• Disconnect the negative battery cable.
• Look for the fuel rail. It should be the chrome pipe that runs between all of the injectors.
• Find the plastic cap on the fuel rail and unscrew it. Underneath, you will see the pressure check port, which looks like a regular tire valve.
• With the ignition key in the OFF position, push the valve in to release the fuel pressure. Fuel will also be released, so have a rag handy and do not look into the valve when pushing it.

It is important to note that even when the engine is not running, fuel in the system remains under high pressure. Therefore, fuel system pressure must be relieved before working on or disconnecting any fuel lines, fuel tubes, or fuel system components. Failure to do so may result in accidental fuel spraying, personal injury, or a fire hazard.

Disconnect the negative battery cable

Disconnecting the negative battery cable is one of the first steps to take when replacing the fuel pump on a 1999 Ford Expedition. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Step 1: Before you begin, it is important to relieve the fuel system pressure. This is a critical safety precaution as it helps prevent accidental spraying of fuel, which could lead to personal injury or a fire hazard.

Step 2: Locate the negative battery cable. It is usually black and connected to the negative terminal of the battery, which is often marked with a "-" symbol.

Step 3: Prepare the necessary tools. You will typically need a combination of wrenches and sockets that fit the battery terminal. Make sure you have the correct size to avoid stripping the nuts or bolts.

Step 4: Loosen the nut or bolt that secures the negative battery cable to the battery terminal using the appropriate tool. If the connection is tight, you may need to use a breaker bar or a similar tool for additional leverage.

Step 5: Carefully remove the cable from the battery terminal. Be cautious not to let the cable touch any metal parts of the vehicle, as it could cause a short circuit.

Step 6: Once the cable is disconnected, place it away from the battery and any metal components to avoid accidental contact. You can use a cable tie or a similar method to secure it in place.

Step 7: Verify that the cable is properly insulated and cannot come into contact with the battery or any metal parts during the rest of the fuel pump replacement process.

Step 8: Proceed with the next steps of the fuel pump replacement process, which may include lifting and supporting the vehicle, draining fuel from the tank, and disconnecting various components. Always refer to a reliable repair manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any steps.

Remember, working on a vehicle's fuel system can be dangerous due to the presence of flammable mixtures and high-pressure fuel. It is crucial to take the necessary safety precautions and work in a well-ventilated area to mitigate the risks.

Drain fuel from the tank

To drain the fuel from the tank of a 1999 Ford Expedition, follow these steps:

Step 1: Relieve Fuel System Pressure

Before starting any work on your Ford Expedition, it is crucial to relieve the fuel system pressure. This step is essential for safety reasons, as it helps prevent accidental spraying of fuel, which could lead to personal injury or a fire hazard.

Step 2: Disconnect the Negative Battery Cable

Locate the negative battery cable and disconnect it. This step ensures that the electrical system is inactive while you work on the vehicle.

Step 3: Lift and Support the Vehicle

Use a jack or a lift to raise the vehicle and provide access to the fuel tank. Place jack stands or other supports under the vehicle to ensure stability and safety during the repair process.

Step 4: Drain Fuel from the Tank

Place a suitable container under the fuel tank to collect the drained fuel. Be extremely cautious during this step to avoid any sparks or open flames, as gasoline is highly flammable. You can use a siphon pump or drain plug to remove the fuel from the tank.

Step 5: Disconnect the Fuel Tank Filler Pipe Vent Hose

Locate the fuel tank filler pipe vent hose and disconnect it from the fuel tank. This hose is responsible for venting fumes from the fuel tank to the outside.

Step 6: Disconnect the Fuel Pump Connector

Before removing the fuel tank, it is essential to disconnect the fuel pump connector. This step ensures that the fuel pump is no longer active and prevents any accidental activation during the repair process.

Step 7: Support the Fuel Tank with a Jack

Use a jack to support the fuel tank and prevent it from falling or shifting during the repair process. Place the jack in a stable position to bear the weight of the fuel tank safely.

Step 8: Remove the Fuel Tank Skid Plate (if equipped)

Some Ford Expedition models may have a fuel tank skid plate. If your vehicle has one, remove it at this step. The skid plate is typically bolted to the underside of the vehicle and protects the fuel tank from debris and damage.

Step 9: Remove the Fuel Tank Support Straps

Locate and remove the fuel tank support straps. These straps hold the fuel tank in place, and removing them will allow you to lower and remove the fuel tank.

Step 10: Partially Lower the Fuel Tank and Disconnect the EVAP Hoses

Lower the fuel tank slightly to access the EVAP hoses. EVAP hoses are part of the evaporative emissions control system, which prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. Disconnect these hoses carefully to avoid any damage.

Step 11: Disconnect the Safety Clips from the Fuel Line

Fuel lines are typically secured with safety clips to prevent accidental disconnection. Locate and remove these safety clips to prepare for the next step.

Step 12: Disconnect the Fuel Line from the Fuel Pump

Using the appropriate tool (such as a fuel line disconnect tool), carefully disconnect the fuel line from the fuel pump. Be cautious, as the fuel line may still contain some fuel, and ensure that the disconnected fuel line is securely capped or plugged to prevent spills.

By following these steps, you will have successfully drained the fuel from the tank of your 1999 Ford Expedition. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and always put safety first when working with flammable liquids.

Disconnect the fuel pump connector

Disconnecting the fuel pump connector is a crucial step in replacing the fuel pump in a 1999 Ford Expedition. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this safely and effectively:

Step 1: Safety First

Before beginning any work on your Ford Expedition's fuel system, it is essential to prioritize safety. Fuel-related components always contain highly flammable mixtures, so never smoke or carry a lit cigarette, and avoid any open flames during this process. Additionally, the fuel system remains under high pressure even when the engine is off. Therefore, you must relieve the fuel system pressure before disconnecting any fuel lines or components. Failure to do so may result in accidental fuel spraying, personal injury, or a fire hazard.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

Start by relieving the fuel system pressure. Then, disconnect the negative battery cable. Lift and securely support the vehicle, and drain the fuel from the fuel tank.

Step 3: Access the Fuel Pump

Disconnect the fuel tank filler pipe vent hose from the fuel tank. Use a jack to support the fuel tank and, if equipped, remove the fuel tank skid plate. Remove the fuel tank support straps and partially lower the fuel tank.

Step 4: Disconnect the Fuel Pump Connector

At this point, you should have access to the fuel pump. Locate the fuel pump connector, which provides the electrical connection to the fuel pump. Disconnect the fuel pump connector carefully, ensuring that you do not damage any wires or components.

Step 5: Continue with Fuel Pump Replacement

Once the fuel pump connector is disconnected, continue with the fuel pump replacement process. This may include removing the fuel pump lock ring and O-ring, installing a new fuel pump, and reconnecting necessary components. Always refer to a reliable repair guide or seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps.

Remember to exercise caution and follow safety procedures throughout the entire process of replacing the fuel pump in your 1999 Ford Expedition.

Remove the fuel pump lock ring

To remove the fuel pump lock ring, you will need to first remove the fuel tank. This can be done by following these steps:

• Release the fuel system pressure.
• Drain the fuel tank.
• Disconnect the vapor hoses at the rear of the fuel tank.
• If equipped, remove the fuel tank skid plate.
• Position a suitable jack under the fuel tank. Do not support the fuel tank directly beneath the fuel pump mounting area, as this can cause damage to the fuel pump assembly.
• Remove the fuel tank front and rear support straps and lower the front of the fuel tank.
• Disconnect the vent hose from the fuel tank vent spout.
• Disconnect the fuel pump electrical connector.
• Remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.

Once the fuel tank has been removed, you can then remove the fuel pump lock ring. Here are the steps to do so:

• Disconnect the quick-release fittings from the fuel pump.
• Remove the fuel pump lock ring. Ford uses a special tool for this, so make sure you have the correct tool before proceeding.
• Carefully remove the fuel pump assembly to avoid damaging the fuel level sensor.
• Note the location of the fuel pump alignment tabs and remove the O-ring.
• Remove the fuel level sensor.

It is important to exercise caution when working with fuel-related components. Highly flammable mixtures are always present and can easily be ignited, resulting in possible personal injury. It is also important to relieve the fuel system pressure before working on or disconnecting any fuel lines or components. Failure to do so may result in accidental spraying of fuel, which can also cause personal injury or a fire hazard.

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