Replacing The Fuel Pump On A '19: Step-By-Step Guide

Changing a fuel pump can be a challenging task, but with careful preparation and the right tools, it is possible to do it yourself. Before starting, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and equipment, including a new fuel pump, and ensure you have a safe and well-ventilated workspace to avoid the risk of fire or inhalation of harmful fumes. You should also consult your vehicle's service manual for guidance. The first step is to relieve the fuel system pressure, which can be done by running the engine and pulling the fuel pump relay. Next, locate and remove the fuel tank, which may involve using a jack to support it. Once the fuel tank is accessible, you will need to disconnect the fuel lines and remove the old fuel pump. Finally, install the new fuel pump, reconnect the fuel lines, and conduct a road test to confirm a successful repair.

Disconnect the battery

Disconnecting the battery is an important safety precaution when changing the fuel pump in your car. It's a simple task that can prevent accidents and keep you safe while working on the fuel system. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Locate the Battery

The battery is usually located in the engine bay of your car. It is a rectangular or cuboid-shaped unit with two terminals, one positive (+) and one negative (-). Make sure you identify the correct battery for your vehicle, as some cars may have multiple batteries.

Step 2: Disconnect the Negative Terminal

Once you have located the battery, you will need to disconnect the negative terminal. Use a hand or socket wrench to loosen the nut holding the cable onto the negative terminal. You will need to loosen the nut, but you do not need to remove it completely. Be careful not to touch the positive terminal or any other metal parts with the wrench to avoid short circuits.

Step 3: Tuck the Negative Cable Away

After disconnecting the negative cable, it is important to tuck it away from the battery to ensure it does not accidentally come into contact with the terminal. You can move it to the side or secure it in a safe place. This step is crucial for preventing accidental sparks or electrical shorts.

Step 4: Secure the Work Area

Before proceeding with the fuel pump replacement, make sure your work area is secure and well-ventilated. Working on a fuel system can be dangerous, so take the necessary precautions. Have a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure there are no open flames or sparks in the area. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and hands.

Step 5: Optional - Disconnect the Positive Terminal

Disconnecting the positive terminal is not always necessary, but it can be an extra safety precaution. If you choose to do so, use the same technique as for the negative terminal. Loosen the nut holding the cable onto the positive terminal and tuck the cable away from the battery.

Remember, disconnecting the battery will result in the loss of certain settings, such as radio presets and clock settings. You may need to reprogram these settings after reconnecting the battery. Additionally, some modern cars may require specialized tools or procedures to reset certain systems after a battery disconnection. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions.

By following these steps, you can safely disconnect the battery before changing the fuel pump in your car. It is important to prioritize safety when working on any vehicle systems, especially those involving flammable liquids or electrical components.

Remove seats

To remove the seats from your car, you will need to be careful and take your time. It is a relatively easy process, but it is important to do it correctly to avoid damaging your car's interior. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove the seats:

First, move the seat(s) all the way forward. This will give you access to the bolts at the back of the seat. There are usually two bolts at the back and two at the front. For the front bucket seats, there are four bolts holding the seat to the ends of the runners. That's two screws up front and two at the back. Use a socket wrench to unscrew and remove them. Pneumatic drivers were probably used to install them, but a long enough socket wrench should be enough to loosen the bolts.

Some bolts have decorative plastic moulding coverings held in place by a screw. You can remove the covering by unscrewing it or prying it off with a slotted screwdriver if there is no screw. To access the front bolts, slide the seat to the rearmost position. For the rear bolts, slide the seat to the forward-most position. Remember to keep the bolts safe in a plastic bag.

Once all four bolts are removed, gently tilt the seat back or forward to reveal any wires connected to the underside of the seat. Carefully unplug these wires, which are usually for seat belt sensors, seat position controls, and heaters. Now you can remove the seat from the car, being careful not to scratch the upholstery or doorjambs. Cover any leftover wires with a plastic bag or rubber band.

If you are removing the backseat, the process may vary depending on the vehicle. Some seats have small release levers under the front seat, while others have a pull handle in the middle where the seat belt receivers are placed. Some seats can be removed by wedging your hand behind the seat bottom and pulling, while others have screws at the bottom edge near the footwells.

Remember to consult your vehicle's operating manual when removing seats, especially for modern cars. Additionally, always disconnect the car battery for power seats before starting.

Remove access screws

To remove the access screws, you will need to gather the necessary tools and safety equipment. This includes a jack and jack stands to safely raise and support the rear of the vehicle, as well as a ratchet, sockets and wrenches of various sizes, and safety glasses to protect your eyes.

Once you have the required tools, follow these steps:

• Put on your safety glasses to protect your eyes from any debris.
• Safely raise and support the rear of your vehicle using the jack and jack stands. It is important to ensure the vehicle is secure and will not move or shift during the process.
• If necessary, remove the rear seat or rear seat cushion to access the fuel pump area. This may involve unscrewing or detaching any screws or fasteners holding the seat in place.
• Locate the access screws that secure the fuel pump assembly in place. These screws will vary in number and position depending on your vehicle's make and model. They may be located under the rear seat, in the trunk area, or in an access port.
• Using the appropriate size socket or wrench, carefully loosen and remove the access screws. Place them in a secure location so they do not get lost.
• With the access screws removed, you should now be able to access the fuel pump assembly for further repairs or replacement.

It is important to consult your vehicle's service or repair manual for specific instructions and safety precautions before beginning any fuel pump work. Additionally, working with fuel can be dangerous, so ensure you take the necessary precautions, such as relieving fuel system pressure and having a fire extinguisher nearby.

Disconnect fuel lines

Disconnecting the fuel lines is one of the most challenging tasks when replacing a fuel pump. There are various types of fuel line styles, and different vehicles will have different requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide to disconnecting the fuel lines for a 1983-2012 Ford Ranger or Mazda B-Series model:

First, you need to relieve the pressure in the fuel system. To do this, you can either run the engine and pull the fuel pump relay, or you can press the Schrader valve on the pressure line. Next, locate the fuel tank and remove it from the vehicle. This will give you access to the fuel pump.

Now, to disconnect the fuel line from the fuel pump assembly, you need to focus on the green tab. While pressing and holding pressure on the green tab with a small screwdriver, push the fuel line towards the pump. Keep holding the pressure and then remove the line. You may need to rotate the line slightly, as it may be crusty from years of use. If you are having trouble, you can spray some plastic-safe lubricant to help loosen it.

For a push-type connector, you will need to push from both directions to release it if there is a push point on both sides. If there is only a push point on one side, simply push it down and pull it off. For a push-and-lock style connector, push it onto your fitting and then push the locking tab through. Beneath the fitting is a safety line. To remove this type, release the safety latch and push the connector back through.

For a pinch-type connector, pinch the retainers on each side together to disconnect the connector. To reinstall, you can either leave the retainer on the male end and slide the female fitting over it, or remove the retainer and then slide the fitting onto the male fitting until it clicks.

For a spring-style retainer fitting, slide it on until you hear a click. To remove it, pull back on the black ring, which serves as the release tool, and then pull the fitting off.

For a hose and clamp-style fitting, typically used for emissions lines, use pliers to pinch the clamp together, slide it back, and then pull the line off.

Reassemble the fuel system

Reassembling the fuel system is a crucial step in the process of changing a fuel pump. Here is a detailed guide on how to effectively reassemble the fuel system:

Firstly, it is important to match the new fuel pump with the original pump to ensure you have the correct part. This step is crucial as installing the wrong part can lead to further complications. Once you have confirmed that you have the correct fuel pump, carefully connect the fuel lines to the new pump. Ensure that all connections are secure and tight to prevent any leaks.

Next, lift the fuel tank and install the retaining strap or any other necessary components to secure the tank in place. This may involve using a jack and a block of wood to support the tank, as well as reinstalling any retaining straps or bolts that were previously removed. Ensure that the tank is stable and securely fastened to the frame of the vehicle.

After the fuel tank is securely in place, reconnect the filler tube hose and the electrical connector to the pump. Refer to your vehicle's manual to ensure that all connections are made correctly. Once the connections are secure, reconnect the negative battery cable.

Finally, refill the fuel tank with gasoline and conduct a road test to confirm that the repair was successful. Fill the tank with gas, start the engine, and check for any leaks or unusual behaviour. If there are no issues, your fuel system has been successfully reassembled and your vehicle is ready to be driven.

It is important to note that these steps may vary depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle. Always refer to the owner's manual or a repair manual for specific instructions pertaining to your vehicle. Additionally, it is recommended to wear protective gear, such as eyewear and gloves, when working with fuel to ensure your safety.

Frequently asked questions