Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your Classic 1983 F150 Truck

If the fuel pump in your 1983 F150 is acting up, you're not alone. This is a common issue with Ford F150s from the 1980s, and there are a few things you can try to get it running again. First, check for loose wires, especially if you've recently rebuilt the engine or installed an aftermarket pump. You may also need to replace the rubber mounting pads, the vent grommets, the vents, the fill neck, or the vent pipe. If the pump is simply getting old and clogged, you can replace it with a new one designed for your truck's make and model.

Sourcing a replacement fuel pump

Advance Auto Parts

Advance Auto Parts offers a wide range of fuel pumps for the 1983 Ford F-150, with prices starting from $24.99 up to $206.99. They carry trusted brands such as Carquest Premium, Mr. Gasket, Delphi, Edelbrock, Holley, and KAI. Mr. Gasket's electric fuel pump is a direct bolt-on replacement for Holley Fuel Pumps, and it features solid-state electronics and internal pressure regulation. Carquest Premium mechanical fuel pumps are engineered to meet or exceed original equipment specifications and include installation gaskets. Delphi mechanical fuel pumps are also available and are built to OE standards.

CARiD.com

CARiD.com offers a range of fuel system parts for the 1983 Ford F-150, including electric and mechanical fuel pumps. The Replace® Electric Fuel Pump is designed to replace your worn-out fuel system parts and optimise your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. The Delphi® Mechanical Fuel Pump is another option, known for its OE fit and reliability. The GMB® Mechanical Fuel Pump is also a good choice, as it is designed to adjust and optimise the air/fuel ratio delivered to the engine.

Amazon

According to a publication by MotorTrend, you can also find fuel pump module replacements on Amazon in the $40-$80 range. The publication mentions that the plastic module (housing) that contains the pump can be purchased for less than half the price of the entire fuel pump sender assembly.

When sourcing a replacement fuel pump, it is important to consider the specific make and model of your 1983 F150 to ensure compatibility. Additionally, reading customer reviews and comparing prices can help you make an informed decision.

Removing the fuel tank

To remove the fuel tank from your 1983 F150, you will need to first drain the fuel from the tank. This is an essential step for safety reasons and to avoid spillage. Use a clear hose and air pump to siphon the gas into a safe container.

Next, you will need to remove the heat shield. This can be done with an impact wrench. There are two sets of bolts here: one set holds the heat shield, and the other holds the fuel tank. Only unfasten the bolts for the heat shield.

Now, place two floor jacks underneath the fuel tank to support it when you drop the tank. You can add padding to the jacks to prevent any damage to the tank.

At this point, you are ready to drop the fuel tank. Unfasten the bolts holding the tank in place and gently twist off the two straps to avoid damaging the mounting point. As you lower the tank with the jacks, have someone assist you. Halfway through, disconnect the fuel fill line with a hex socket.

Finally, carefully lift the fuel tank out, taking care not to spill any remaining fuel.

This process will grant you access to the fuel pump, which you can then replace.

Disconnecting the fuel pump lines

Preparation:

Before beginning any work on your F150, it's important to gather the necessary tools and safety equipment. For this task, you'll need safety gloves and goggles to protect yourself from any fuel spillage. You'll also require a flathead screwdriver and, ideally, an aluminum 3/8” Ford fuel line disconnect tool. If you don't have this specialized tool, you can carefully pull and release the fuel lines by hand.

Locating the Fuel Pump Module:

The fuel pump module is bolted to the top of the fuel tank. To access it, you'll first need to siphon the fuel out of the tank and into a safe container. Use a clear hose and an air pump for this step. Once the tank is empty, remove the heat shield with an impact wrench. There are two sets of bolts here; one set holds the heat shield, and the other set holds the fuel tank in place. Only unfasten the bolts for the heat shield.

Supporting the Fuel Tank:

Place two floor jacks underneath the fuel tank to support it when you start unbolting and lowering it. You can add padding to the jacks to prevent any potential damage to the tank.

Now, you're ready to disconnect the fuel pump lines. First, gently twist off the two straps holding the fuel tank in place, being careful not to damage the mounting point. As you lower the fuel tank with the jacks, have an assistant help you hold it, and remember to disconnect the fuel fill line with a hex socket about halfway through.

The fuel pump module is now accessible. You should see the fuel lines connected to the module by safety clips. This is where you'll use the Ford fuel line disconnect tool or carefully pull and release the lines by hand. Take your time with this step to avoid any accidental spills or damage to the lines.

Once the fuel lines are disconnected, you can proceed to clean the fuel pump module and then remove the old fuel pump assembly. Remember to follow safety protocols and have a fire extinguisher nearby when working with flammable liquids like fuel.

Cleaning the fuel pump module

To clean the fuel pump module of your 1983 F150, you'll first need to remove the fuel tank. Ensure there is as little fuel in the tank as possible to minimize weight. Then, remove the filler hose, tank straps, and protective skid plate.

Once the fuel tank is removed, you can access the fuel pump module. Use a plastic brush to clean off any dust and dirt from the top of the module. Be sure to clean it thoroughly to prevent the fuel tank from getting contaminated when you remove the old fuel pump assembly.

If your fuel pump is failing, you will need to replace it. Symptoms of a failing fuel pump include hard starts and a loss of power while towing or driving uphill. An inadequate amount of fuel is being pushed to the engine, and eventually, the pump will fail and could leave you stranded.

You can buy a replacement fuel pump module online or from a Ford dealership. The module typically comes with a strainer sock, replacement gaskets for the fuel pump assembly hanger, and new clips for the fuel lines leading into the tank.

To install the new fuel pump module, simply follow the removal steps in reverse. Be sure to reconnect the fuel lines correctly and turn on the ignition to test the new fuel pump. Check for leaks before driving.

Installing the new fuel pump assembly

Now that you've removed the old fuel pump assembly, it's time to install the new one.

First, take the new fuel pump assembly and bolt it onto the fuel tank. You'll need to use the reverse order of steps that you followed to remove the old assembly. Make sure to reconnect the fuel lines correctly and securely.

Next, turn the ignition on to activate the fuel pump and check for any leaks before you start the engine. It's important to ensure that all connections are secure and there are no fuel leaks before operating the vehicle.

Once you've confirmed that there are no leaks, carefully lower the fuel tank back into place, ensuring it sits securely on the floor jacks. Twist the straps back on, taking care not to damage the mounting point.

Now, reconnect the fuel fill line with the hex socket. Then, carefully raise the bed of the truck back to its original position and secure it with the bolts. Reconnect the battery and any other components you may have disconnected during the process.

Finally, start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. If everything sounds good and there are no leaks, you're all set! Your new fuel pump assembly has been successfully installed, and your 1983 F-150 is ready to hit the road again.

Frequently asked questions