Replacing The Fuel Pump In A 1997 Ford Taurus

If you're looking to replace the fuel pump in your 1997 Ford Taurus, it's important to understand the risks involved and the steps required to complete the task safely and effectively. Working with the fuel system can be dangerous, so it's recommended to let a repair shop handle this job unless you are very experienced in auto repair. The first step is to disconnect the battery to reduce the risk of fire. For pumps inside the fuel tank, there will usually be an access cover that needs to be removed. In some cases, fuel will need to be drained before removing the access panel. When the pump is outside the tank, a mechanic will disconnect the fuel lines, remove the pump, and install a new one. The cost of replacing a fuel pump varies, but for a Ford Taurus, it typically ranges from $916 to $1,165.

Disconnect the battery to reduce the chance of a fire

Disconnecting the battery is the first step to take when changing the fuel pump on a 1997 Ford Taurus. This is a crucial safety precaution that should not be overlooked. Working with the fuel system of a car is inherently dangerous, and disconnecting the battery is an important step to reduce the chance of a fire occurring during the process.

Disconnecting the battery will break the electrical circuit of the car, preventing any power from being supplied to the fuel pump. This is important because a failing fuel pump may not be receiving the correct voltage or may have a bad connection, which could lead to a fire. By disconnecting the battery, you eliminate the risk of an electrical current being supplied to the fuel pump, reducing the chance of a spark or electrical malfunction that could cause a fire.

Additionally, disconnecting the battery will also disable any electrical components that may be near the fuel pump, further reducing the risk of an accidental spark or electrical malfunction. It is a simple step, but it is an essential one to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and the person performing the repair.

It is also important to note that fuel pump issues can sometimes be misdiagnosed, and a clogged fuel filter or bad circuit can cause similar symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended to have the fuel pump professionally diagnosed before attempting any repairs.

Remove the access cover for pumps inside the fuel tank

To remove the access cover for pumps inside the fuel tank of a 1997 Ford Taurus, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure your fuel tank is as empty as possible. If it is not, siphon the fuel out of the tank. You can do this through the tank vent hose.

Next, jack up the car and place jack stands under it for support. Place a floor jack under the tank with a piece of wood between the jack and the tank so as not to damage the tank.

Now, remove the tank strap bolts. Spray them with a lubricant first to help remove them. Once the bolts are removed, slowly lower the floor jack, checking regularly to ensure no hoses are catching. As you lower the tank, gently push it towards the front of the car to separate the tank filler and vent hoses from the car's metal piping.

Lower the tank as far as possible without risking any plastic hoses breaking off the top of the tank. Then, remove the plastic hoses and electrical clip from the top of the tank.

You should now see a ring surrounding the pump sending unit. Place a flat-bladed screwdriver against one of the tabs and gently hit the screwdriver with a hammer so the ring rotates counter-clockwise. Once the ring is removed, carefully remove the assembly from the tank.

Finally, with the access cover removed, you can now replace the fuel pump.

Drain fuel before removing the access panel

When replacing the fuel pump on your 1997 Ford Taurus, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the integrity of the vehicle. One crucial step in this process is to drain the fuel before removing the access panel. Here is a detailed guide on how to safely and effectively complete this task:

Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Tools and Safety Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have the required tools and safety gear to perform the fuel drainage. This includes a fuel siphon system or a manual pump, a hose (approximately 6 feet long with a 3/8 inch diameter), a pan or suitable receptacle for catching the drained fuel, and a fire extinguisher specifically designed for gas fires. It is also recommended to wear rubber-soled shoes and clothing made of natural fibres, such as cotton, to reduce the risk of static electricity sparks.

Step 2: Locate the Fuel Tank and Drain Plug

Position your car so that you can easily access the fuel tank and drain plug. The fuel tank is typically located on the same side of the car as the fuel filler door. Once you've identified the fuel tank, look for the drainage plug, which is usually a small bolt screwed directly into the tank. The drainage plug can usually be found underneath the passenger-side seat.

Step 3: Place the Pan Under the Drain Plug

Place a pan or a suitable receptacle directly under the drainage plug to catch the fuel as it drains. Make sure you have enough containers to capture all the fuel, as it is challenging to stop the drainage process once started.

Step 4: Disconnect the Battery

Before proceeding, it is crucial to disconnect the car battery to reduce the risk of fire during the fuel pump replacement process.

Step 5: Remove the Drain Plug

Using a spanner or a socket wrench, carefully unscrew the drain plug. This will create an opening for the fuel to drain out. Be cautious, as the fuel will start flowing out immediately.

Step 6: Drain the Fuel

Allow the fuel to drain completely. This process can take several minutes per gallon, so be patient and keep an eye on it to ensure no fuel spills onto the ground. Make sure to have enough drain pans or containers to collect all the drained fuel.

Step 7: Reinstall the Drain Plug and Refill the Fuel Tank

Once the fuel tank is empty, securely tighten the drain plug back into place. Refill the fuel tank with fresh fuel, following the recommended fuel type for your vehicle.

Step 8: Dispose of the Drained Fuel Properly

If you cannot reuse the drained fuel, dispose of it responsibly by contacting your local environmental waste disposal centre or fire department for guidance on safe disposal methods. Do not pour fuel down drains or sewers.

By following these steps, you can effectively drain the fuel from your 1997 Ford Taurus before removing the access panel to replace the fuel pump. Remember to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines when working with flammable liquids.

Disconnect the fuel lines, remove the pump, and install a new one

Disconnecting the fuel lines on a 1997 Ford Taurus can be done in several ways, depending on the specific retaining clip type.

If you have access to Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C, or an equivalent, you can use this to remove the retaining clips. Otherwise, a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers with a jaw width of 0.2 inches or less can be used to compress the retaining clip and release the fitting. Be sure to inspect the retaining clip, fitting end, and connector for any damage and replace the clip if necessary.

The next step is to remove the fuel pump. This can be done without lowering the tank, although it is a tight fit and may require some creativity. One method is to cut a hole in the sheet metal, leaving 2 inches attached so you can fold it back after the job. Be sure to use a non-sparking tool, such as a brass or hard plastic tool, to loosen the tank lock ring. You will also need to cut the wires to the fuel pump, so be careful not to cut any wire strands.

Finally, you can install the new fuel pump. Make sure to use the correct pump for your vehicle—the red label (Motorcraft PFS244) is for 18-gallon tanks, and the white label (Motorcraft PFS243) is for 16-gallon tanks. Solder the wires, ensuring that no strands are cut, and secure the pump in place. Reattach the sheet metal, sealing any holes with an adhesive-backed aluminized heat barrier, and you're done!

Check for fuel leaks and that the problem is solved

Once you've replaced the fuel pump on your 1997 Ford Taurus, you'll need to check for fuel leaks and ensure that the problem is solved. Here's a detailed guide on how to do this:

Check for Fuel Leaks:

• Park your car on a level surface to ensure balanced pressure and stable fuel distribution.
• Look for any puddles or wet spots under your car, especially near the rear end or directly under the fuel tank. Gasoline will have a clear to slightly yellowish hue and a strong, pungent smell.
• Listen for any hissing or whistling sounds coming from the fuel tank area, which could indicate a leak, especially if the engine is off after a recent drive.
• Inspect the fuel tank and fuel lines for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or holes.
• If you suspect a leak, do not start the car. Keep the keys out of the ignition and evacuate the area to a safe distance, as gasoline vapors can travel and ignite.
• Contact roadside assistance for further guidance and support.

Ensure the Problem is Solved:

• Monitor your fuel gauge to check if the fuel is depleting at a normal rate.
• Pay attention to any unusual smells, sounds, or performance issues that may indicate the problem has not been fully resolved.
• If you continue to experience issues, consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis and repairs.

Remember, working with the fuel system can be dangerous, so always take the necessary precautions to avoid the risk of fire. It is recommended to have a professional handle fuel pump replacements and leak inspections.

Frequently asked questions