Replacing The Fuel Pump In A 2000 Firebird: Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing the fuel pump on a 2000 Firebird is a complex task that requires a range of tools and mechanical expertise. The fuel pump is directly connected to the fuel tank, so the tank must be disconnected and removed from the car to access the pump. Before beginning this process, it is essential to relieve the pressure in the fuel system and drain the gas from the tank. This can be done by opening the gas cap, removing the fuse for the fuel system, and starting the engine until it stops. Once the fuel tank is removed, the fuel sender can be disconnected from the tank, and the pump can be removed from the sender. A new fuel pump can then be installed, and the fuel tank reconnected and refilled.

There are alternative methods to access the fuel pump without removing the fuel tank, such as cutting a trap door above the fuel pump assembly or removing the exhaust and rear axle. However, these methods may be more complex and could compromise the integrity of the vehicle.

Relieve the pressure in the fuel system

To relieve the pressure in the fuel system of a 2000 Firebird, follow these steps:

Firstly, open the gas cap. This will relieve some pressure from the fuel tank. Next, go to your fuse box and remove the fuse for the fuel system. Now, start the engine and let it run until it stops. This will relieve any remaining pressure in the system. Finally, disconnect the negative battery cable.

It is important to relieve the pressure in the fuel system before performing any maintenance or repairs on the fuel system of your Firebird. This will help to ensure your safety while working on the vehicle. It is also a good idea to have the Firebird low on fuel, or to perform the maintenance near a gas station, so that you don't have to drain too much fuel from the tank.

Disconnect and remove the fuel tank and sender assembly from the fuel pump

To disconnect and remove the fuel tank and sender assembly from the fuel pump, follow these steps:

Firstly, relieve the pressure in the fuel system. Open the gas cap, go to the fuse box within the engine, and remove the fuse for the fuel system. Then, start the engine and let it run until it stops.

Next, disconnect the negative battery cable. Now, raise the car on jack stands and drain the fuel from the tank. Remove the tank's drain plug or the line running to the fuel filter. Ensure you know how much fuel is in the tank and have an approved container to pour it into.

Now, clean the fuel system's exterior, especially around the fuel-sender assembly. This will prevent anything from contaminating the fuel system upon disassembly.

Finally, disconnect and remove the fuel sender from the tank by removing its retaining ring and removing the pump from the sender.

Install the new fuel pump and attach the sender to the tank

Now that you have removed the old fuel pump and sender, it's time to install the new fuel pump and attach the sender to the tank.

First, install the new fuel pump onto the fuel sender. Make sure to use a new strainer with the new pump, as well as new O-rings on the tank's opening groove and the sender feed tube. Fold the strainer over itself and place the sender in the tank carefully to avoid damaging the strainer or trapping it by the sump walls.

Next, attach the sender back to the tank. Reconnect the fuel tank, torquing its bolts to 33 foot-pounds. Once the fuel tank is reconnected, refill the tank and close the fuel cap.

Now, reconnect the fuel system's fuse and the battery cable. Finally, turn the ignition switch on (without starting the Firebird) for two seconds, switch it back off for 10 seconds, then switch it back on. Repeat this sequence two to three times to restore pressure in the system and check for leaks.

And that's it! You have now successfully replaced the fuel pump in your 2000 Firebird.

Reconnect the fuel tank

To reconnect the fuel tank, you will need to have the fuel tank and sender assembly attached to the fuel pump. You will also need to have cleaned the fuel system's exterior and be ready to refill the tank.

First, reconnect the fuel tank, torquing its bolts to 33 foot-pounds. Refill the tank, close the fuel cap, and reconnect the fuel system's fuse and the battery cable.

Then, turn the ignition switch on (without starting the Firebird) for two seconds, switch it back off for 10 seconds, and then switch it back on. Repeat this sequence two to three times to restore pressure in the system and check for leaks.

Finally, if you have replaced the pump near a gas station when the car is low on fuel, you won't have to refill the tank.

Turn the ignition on and off to restore pressure and check for leaks

Once you've finished installing the new fuel pump, you'll need to turn the ignition on and off to restore pressure and check for leaks. Here's how to do it:

Turn the ignition switch on (without starting the Firebird) for two seconds, then switch it back off for 10 seconds. Turn the ignition switch back on and leave it on to check for leaks. Repeat this sequence two to three times.

If you're replacing the pump near a gas station when the car is low on fuel, you won't have to worry about draining and refilling the tank. However, if you're not near a gas station, make sure you refill the tank after performing this procedure.

Frequently asked questions