Replacing The Fuel Pump In A '98 Chevy Malibu

Changing the fuel pump on a 1998 Chevy Malibu can be a complicated process. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, so the tank must be removed first. This will involve disconnecting the battery and raising the car safely. Once the tank is out, the fuel pump is held in place with a retainer ring, which needs to be turned counterclockwise to remove the pump assembly. It is important to note that there is pressure on the fuel line, so opening the line can be dangerous and should be done with caution.

Disconnect hoses from the fittings at the tank

To disconnect the hoses from the fittings at the tank of your 1998 Chevy Malibu, you will first need to raise the car safely. This is because the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, so you will need to remove the tank first.

Once the car is raised, you can begin to disconnect the hoses. Make sure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment, including gloves and eye protection. Loosen any clamps securing the hoses to the fittings, being careful not to damage the hoses. You may need to use a hose removal tool to do this safely.

After the clamps are loosened, gently pull on the hoses to detach them from the fittings. Be prepared for any residual fuel to spill or drip, and have a container ready to catch any fuel that may come out. It is important to work carefully and slowly to avoid any spills or accidents.

Once the hoses are disconnected, set them aside, ensuring they are placed in a safe area where they will not be damaged or cause an obstruction. With the hoses removed, you can now access the bolts securing the straps that hold the fuel tank in place. Remove these bolts, and you will be able to lower and remove the fuel tank.

This process is a moderately complicated job and should be performed with caution. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with any part of the process, it is best to consult a professional mechanic or take your car to a service centre.

Remove bolts securing the straps that hold the fuel tank in

To remove the bolts securing the straps that hold the fuel tank in place, you will first need to disconnect the battery and raise the car safely. This is a moderately complicated job and it is recommended that it is performed by a professional mechanic.

Once the car is safely raised, you will need to locate the bolts that secure the straps holding the fuel tank in place. These bolts will be located near the fuel tank, which is located under the rear of the vehicle.

Using the appropriate tool, loosen and remove the bolts that secure the straps. Keep the bolts in a safe place so that you can reuse them if necessary.

With the bolts removed, you should now be able to access the fuel tank. Carefully lower the fuel tank and place it on a secure surface. Now you can begin the process of removing the fuel pump.

Remember to exercise extreme caution when working with fuel systems, as there may be residual pressure in the lines which could cause injury if not properly released.

Turn the retainer ring counter-clockwise to remove the fuel pump assembly

To remove the fuel pump assembly from the tank of your 1998 Chevy Malibu, you will first need to disconnect the negative battery cable and relieve the system's fuel pressure. Next, drain the fuel tank and raise the vehicle.

Now, you can remove the fuel tank and disconnect the electrical and ventilation connections on the modular fuel sender assembly cover.

Turning the retainer ring

When turning the retainer ring, it is important to avoid damaging it. You should use a J 45722 Fuel Sender Lock Ring Wrench to prevent damage. Do not handle the fuel sender assembly by the fuel pipes, as this could damage the joints.

You will need to secure the fuel tank to prevent it from rotating. Using a J 4572 and a long breaker bar, unlock the fuel sender lock ring. The modular fuel sender assembly may spring up from its position, so be prepared for this.

When removing the assembly, be aware that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. Tip it slightly to avoid damaging the float. You will need to discard the fuel in the reservoir bucket into an approved container.

Now, you can fully remove the modular fuel sender assembly.

Raise the car safely

To raise your 1998 Chevy Malibu safely, you must first ensure you are parked on a firm, level surface such as concrete or asphalt. Never attempt to raise your car on soft or uneven terrain, like gravel or earth/dirt, and never on a slope.

Before raising the car, centre your steering wheel so the front wheels point exactly straight ahead. You can then slide the first ramp directly in front of the front driver-side wheel, until it touches the rubber of the tyre. Put the second ramp in front of the front passenger-side wheel. Ensure each ramp is centred in the path of the tyre so that the wheels will stay completely supported by the ramps.

With the engine running and the car in gear, slowly drive the car onto the ramps. You may need to apply more throttle than expected due to the steep incline of the ramps. Continue driving slowly up the ramps until the car levels out, then stop. Put the car in park, apply the parking brake, turn off the ignition, and remove the key.

Before you get under the car, give it a good shove. If it moves, you need to reposition the ramps. You can also use a jack and jack stands to raise your car. Ensure you use a jack that is up to the job and can handle the weight of your car. Check your car's handbook for safe jacking points and never lift the car by putting the jack under the engine, gearbox, or any plastic undertray. Instead, use a chassis rail, subframe, or suspension mounting point. Once the car is at the desired height, place your axle stands to bear the weight of the car.

Disconnect the battery

Disconnecting the battery of a car is a serious task that should be done with caution. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to disconnect the battery of a Chevy Malibu:

First, it is important to note that the Chevy Malibu has two batteries: a 12V battery and a hybrid battery. The 12V battery is typically located in the trunk, while the hybrid battery is located under the hood.

When disconnecting the battery, always start with the negative cable, then the positive cable. This is a crucial safety measure. Additionally, when using jumper cables, always use metal on the engine for the ground connection to prevent sparks at the battery, which could cause an explosion under certain conditions.

For the 2016 Chevy Malibu, there are some pictures and warnings available on the BBB Industries website. It is recommended to refer to these pictures and warnings before attempting to disconnect the battery.

Finally, for the 2020 Chevy Malibu, one method to disconnect the battery is to insert the key into the slot in the armrest compartment. The slot is located towards the back of the compartment, and you may need to stand the key up with the bottom facing forward.

Frequently asked questions