Replacing Fuel Pump In Vp Commodores: Step-By-Step Guide

The fuel pump in a VP Commodore is located inside the fuel tank. To replace it, you'll need to drain the tank or siphon out the fuel, remove the bolts securing the pump, carefully pull out the assembly, and then replace the pump. When reassembling, ensure the cork gasket is properly installed and tightened gradually in sequence. It's important to be cautious during this process to avoid fuel leaks and potential safety hazards.

Ensure there is very little fuel in the tank

To change the fuel pump in a VP Commodore, it is important to ensure there is very little fuel in the tank. This is because the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and accessing it requires removing the tank or draining the fuel. Working with a lower fuel level minimizes the risk of fuel leakage and potential fire hazards during the replacement process.

• Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Locate the fuel tank and determine the fuel level. If the tank is full or near capacity, you will need to drain or siphon the fuel to reduce the level.
• Use a siphon pump or a similar tool to carefully remove fuel from the tank. Place the siphon hose at the bottom of the tank to extract as much fuel as possible.
• Continue siphoning until the fuel level is well below the "Full" mark, ideally around 1/8 of a tank or lower.
• Once you have ensured there is very little fuel in the tank, you can proceed with the next steps of removing the fuel pump.

Safety is a top priority when working with fuel. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to safeguard against fuel spills or splashes. Ensure the work area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of fuel vapors. If possible, work outdoors or in a spacious, open area.

Remove bolts at the front of the tank

To remove the bolts at the front of the tank of your VP Commodore, you'll first need to make sure there is very little fuel in the tank. Depending on how much fuel is in the tank, you may need to drain or siphon it out. You should aim to have the fuel level down to approximately 1/8 of a tank.

Once you have ensured that there is minimal fuel in the tank, locate the bolts at the front of the tank. There should be 3 bolts at the front of the tank that need to be removed. These bolts are typically 8mm headed bolts.

Using the appropriate tool, carefully remove the bolts. Be cautious not to drop them or lose them, as this will make it difficult to reassemble the tank. Place the bolts somewhere safe and accessible so that you can easily find them when it's time to put everything back together.

With the bolts removed, you can now access the fuel pump for replacement. Remember to take note of the orientation of the pump and any attached components to make reassembly easier.

Carefully pull out the fuel pump assembly

To carefully pull out the fuel pump assembly of your VP Commodore, start by ensuring that you have very little fuel in the tank. This is important because a full tank can make the process more challenging and increase the risk of fuel leakage.

Next, locate the bolts securing the fuel pump assembly in place. Depending on the model of your VP Commodore, there may be either three bolts at the front of the tank or six 8mm-headed bolts around the perimeter of the assembly. Undo these bolts, but there's no need to remove them completely.

Now, carefully pull out the fuel pump assembly. This step may require some twisting and turning, so take your time and be gentle to avoid causing any damage. Once you have successfully removed the assembly, you will be able to access the fuel pump at the end of the unit.

Before proceeding with the replacement, it is recommended to clean out the inside of the tank thoroughly. Removing any built-up dirt or debris can help prevent future issues with the new fuel pump. Additionally, pay attention to the orientation of the components, such as the strainer "sock," to ensure proper reassembly.

Remember to work cautiously and avoid any sudden movements that could lead to fuel spillage or damage to the surrounding components. Safety should always be a top priority when performing automotive repairs.

Disconnect and replace the fuel pump

Disconnecting and replacing the fuel pump of a VP Commodore is a delicate procedure that requires careful attention to ensure a successful outcome. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Firstly, ensure that your VP Commodore has very little fuel in the tank. This is important as you will be working around the fuel pump and fuel lines, and a lower fuel level reduces the risk of spills or leaks. Once that is done, locate the fuel pump. It is situated inside the fuel tank, and you will need to access it from the top of the tank. Depending on the fuel level, you might have to drain or siphon out the fuel.

Now, you will need to remove the assembly holding the fuel pump in place. The assembly is positioned in the lower section of the fuel tank and secured by either a lock ring or bolts. If your car has bolts, there should be around six 8mm-headed bolts that need to be removed. Carefully pull out the assembly, being mindful of any fuel lines or wires connected to it. At this point, you should see the fuel pump.

Disconnect the fuel pump from the assembly, taking note of how it is connected so that you can install the new one correctly. Some models may have a return pipe that needs to be handled with care to avoid breakage. With the old fuel pump removed, carefully install the new one, making sure it is positioned correctly. Reattach the fuel lines and wires, and secure the assembly back into the fuel tank, either by tightening the lock ring or replacing the bolts.

Finally, refill your fuel tank and start the engine. It may take a significant amount of fuel to fill the swirl pot in the tank, so the new pump can prime and pick up fuel. You may also want to consider changing the fuel filter while you're at it.

Remember to take your time and work carefully, especially when handling fuel lines and electrical connections. Always exercise caution when working with flammable liquids like fuel, and ensure your work area is well-ventilated.

Reassemble and secure the fuel pump assembly

To reassemble and secure the fuel pump assembly of your VP Commodore, carefully manoeuvre the new pump assembly into the fuel tank. Ensure that you have correctly positioned the strainer "sock" at the end of the pump pickup, as noted earlier.

Next, hold the assembly in place and gradually tighten the bolts in a sequential order. It is important to use thread sealer on the bolts, such as Loctite 242, rather than a silicon sealer. Do not overtighten the bolts, as this can damage the threads or the gasket.

Once the bolts are secure, plug the fuel pump back in and lower the vehicle. Refill the fuel tank, and then start the engine. It may take a significant amount of fuel to fill the swirl pot in the tank, so be patient as the new pump primes and begins to function properly.

Finally, consider changing the fuel filter while you are still underneath the vehicle. This can be a convenient time to perform this maintenance task, and it will ensure that your VP Commodore runs smoothly with its new fuel pump.

Frequently asked questions