Replacing Fuel Pump In 2001 Ford F150: Step-By-Step Guide

If your 2001 Ford F-150 truck is stalling, stumbling, giving off a fuel odour, or making a humming sound from the rear, it may be time to replace the fuel pump. This is a complex process as the fuel pump is located in the fuel tank under the truck bed. To access the fuel pump, you can either remove the bed or lower the tank. This article will guide you through the steps to change the fuel pump in your 2001 Ford F-150 truck.

Siphoning gas from the tank

To siphon gas from the tank of a 2001 Ford F150, you will need to first find a gas can or another closed container to siphon the gas into. You can use any standard gas canister, as long as it is closed to prevent spilling or inhaling gasoline fumes, which can be hazardous to your health.

Next, you will need to obtain clear plastic tubing that is 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. You will need two lengths of tubing for this process: one long enough to reach deep into the gas tank, and another shorter length that will reach just inside the tank.

Place the gas can on the ground near the opening of the car's gas tank. Feed both tubes into the tank, pushing the longer length well into the gas tank and ensuring that it is fully submerged in the gasoline. You can check this by carefully blowing into the tube and listening for bubbles. The shorter tube should be pushed in just a few inches so that both tubes sit side-by-side.

Use a rag to create a seal around the tubes. This will help to increase air pressure in the tank, displacing the gas through the longer tube and into your receptacle. Pack the rag tightly around the tubes to prevent air from escaping, but be careful not to compress the tubes and restrict the flow. If needed, soak the rag in water, wring it out, and then pack it around the tubes to create a tighter seal.

Now, force air into the short tube. You can do this by blowing into the tube, but be very careful not to inhale any fumes. Alternatively, you can use a mechanical air pump to increase the air pressure inside the tank. As you do this, monitor the flow of gas. Once it is flowing freely, gravity will take over, and you can stop blowing.

When you want to stop siphoning, simply cover the long tube with your thumb, raise it above the level of the gas in the tank, and remove your thumb. Any remaining gas in the tube should flow back into the tank.

There are other methods to siphon gas as well, such as using a siphon pump or traditional mouth siphoning. However, these methods come with additional risks and may not be as effective.

Additionally, it is important to note that newer vehicles may have anti-siphoning measures in place, such as a small opening or a blocking mechanism at the bottom of the filler neck, which may make it difficult to insert the tubing.

If you are unable to siphon the gas, you may need to try alternative methods, such as lowering the tank or removing the fuel pump fuse, as suggested by some mechanics.

Removing the bed

The first step in removing the bed of your 2001 Ford F-150 is to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a new fuel pump assembly, bed hooks, two ropes, a chain hoist, or two strong friends, a flathead screwdriver, and a 3/8" fuel line disconnect tool (optional but useful).

Next, climb onto the bed of your truck and use an impact wrench to remove the six bed bolts. These are T50 Torx bolts, but the size may vary depending on the model year of your F-150. If you have a bed liner, remove it first.

Once the bed bolts are removed, you need to disconnect the fuel filler cap. Remove the three 7mm bolts that hold the filler cap in place and let it hang down.

Now, climb down under the truck just beneath your gas cap. You will find a clamp that connects the filler neck to the bed of your truck. Loosen this clamp so that the filler neck is loose from the bed.

The next step is to disconnect the bed and tail lights. Slide underneath your truck bed and disconnect the wire harness for the bed lighting. To find it, slide over to the left rear corner of the bed and look straight up. Pull on the two connectors until they come loose. Be careful of falling dirt! Let the two ends of the wire harness hang loose.

Then, remove the two taillight plugs. These are located at each corner of the back of the bed. Twist and pull them out.

At this point, you are ready to lift the bed off the truck. Grab a side of the bed and lift, enlisting the help of a friend if needed. If you don't have someone to help, you can use bed hooks, two ropes, and a chain hoist to lift the bed. Once it is lifted, pull the truck forward and lower the bed onto a soft surface or several sawhorses.

With the bed removed, you can now access the fuel pump assembly protruding from the top of the fuel tank.

Unhooking the gas lines

To unhook the gas lines of your 2001 Ford F150, you will need to lower the front of the tank and use a floor jack on the back of the tank to gain access to the gas lines. This process is made difficult by the small space available to work in. You will need to use a special tool to unhook the gas lines, which can be challenging to use with only one hand.

One way to make this process easier is to first remove the bed of the truck. This can be done by unbolting it and raising it up at the front about 10 inches, in a "dump truck style". This will give you better access to the gas lines and fuel pump.

Another method to access the fuel pump is to use a come-along hooked to the frame to lower the front of the tank, and a floor jack to support the back of the tank. This will allow you to access the gas lines and fuel pump from below.

It is important to note that the fuel pump for the 2001 Ford F150 is located in the fuel tank under the truck bed, so accessing it for repair or replacement can be challenging.

Choosing a replacement fuel pump

When choosing a replacement fuel pump for your 2001 Ford F-150, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to opt for a pump that is compatible with your specific vehicle model. Incompatible parts can lead to improper function or even damage to your truck. Make sure to check the exact part numbers and consult a mechanic or seller if you are unsure.

Secondly, consider the quality and reliability of the replacement pump. While some options may be more affordable, they might not offer the same durability and performance as higher-end alternatives. It is worth investing in a well-known brand or a pump with positive reviews to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Additionally, pay attention to the specific features and functions of the fuel pump. For example, some pumps may offer low noise levels, improved driving comfort, or specific pressure capabilities. Choose a pump that aligns with your priorities and requirements.

When making your decision, it is beneficial to consult online resources, forums, and customer reviews. These sources can provide valuable insights into the performance, ease of installation, and overall satisfaction with different replacement fuel pumps.

Lastly, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer or seller. A warranty can provide added peace of mind and protect you in case the replacement pump malfunctions or fails prematurely.

By considering compatibility, quality, features, online reviews, and warranty options, you can make an informed decision when choosing a replacement fuel pump for your 2001 Ford F-150.

Installing the new fuel pump

To install the new fuel pump, you will need to first ensure that the new fuel pump is compatible with your 2001 Ford F-150. There are a variety of fuel pumps available, but only specific ones will work for your vehicle.

Once you have the correct fuel pump, you can begin the installation process. Start by locating the fuel pump in the fuel tank under the truck bed. You may need to remove the truck bed or lower it to access the fuel pump. Be sure to have a plan for dealing with the gas in the tank, as you will need to disconnect the gas lines.

With the gas lines disconnected, you can now remove the old fuel pump. Take note of the orientation and connection points of the old fuel pump to ensure the new one is installed correctly. Carefully install the new fuel pump, making sure it is securely connected. Reattach the gas lines and any other disconnected components.

Finally, you will need to test the new fuel pump to ensure it is functioning properly. Start your truck and listen for any unusual noises. You can also check for fuel leaks or any signs of fuel odour. If everything appears to be in order, your new fuel pump has been successfully installed!

Frequently asked questions