Replacing The Fuel Pump In A 1997 Bravada

If you're experiencing problems with your 1997 Oldsmobile Bravada's fuel pump, you're not alone. Many owners of this model have reported issues with the fuel pump, which can cause the engine to stall and not restart. To replace the fuel pump, you'll need to remove the fuel tank, sender unit, and pump. It's important to note that extreme care must be taken when lowering the fuel tank as the fuel sender is made of plastic and can be easily damaged. The fuel pump is installed in the gas tank, and you'll need to inspect the fuel pump attaching hose, rubber sound insulation, and strainer during the process. The average cost for a fuel pump replacement in the Oldsmobile Bravada is between $721 and $893.

The fuel tank must be removed to access the pump

To replace the fuel pump in a 1997 Oldsmobile Bravada, you must first relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable. Next, raise the vehicle on a hoist and remove the fuel tank. It is important to use extreme care when lowering the fuel tank as the fuel sender is made of plastic and susceptible to damage. Once the fuel tank is removed, the sender unit and pump can be extracted by turning the cam lock counterclockwise with tool J36608. Pull the fuel pump up and out, being careful not to damage the rubber insulator or the strainer. Inspect the fuel pump attaching hose, rubber sound insulation, and strainer for any signs of deterioration.

For installation, insert the fuel pump assembly into the attaching hose, taking care not to fold or twist the strainer, as this restricts fuel flow. Install the sending unit and fuel pump assembly into the fuel tank, along with a new O-ring seal. Lock the cam lock assembly by turning it clockwise. Finally, reinstall the fuel tank, reconnect the negative battery cable, and check the system for leaks.

Disconnect the negative battery cable

Disconnecting the negative battery cable is the first step in replacing the fuel pump in a 1997 Oldsmobile Bravada. This is a crucial step to ensure your safety and prevent any potential electrical hazards. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Locate the negative battery terminal. It is usually marked with a "-" symbol or a black cover.

Step 2: Before disconnecting the cable, make sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection.

Step 3: Using the appropriate size wrench or socket, loosen the nut that secures the negative battery cable to the terminal. Turn it counterclockwise to loosen.

Step 4: Once the nut is loose, carefully remove the cable from the terminal. You may need to wiggle it gently to detach it completely.

Step 5: After removing the cable, place it in a safe location away from the battery to avoid any accidental contact. Ensure that the cable does not touch any metal surfaces.

It is important to note that you should not attempt to disconnect the battery cable if you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process. If necessary, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or a knowledgeable friend. Always prioritize safety when working with electrical systems in a vehicle.

Raise the vehicle on a hoist

To replace the fuel pump in a 1997 Oldsmobile Bravada, you will need to raise the vehicle on a hoist. This is because the fuel tank, which houses the fuel pump, is located underneath the vehicle and needs to be accessed from below.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

Before raising the vehicle, ensure that it is parked on a flat, level surface, such as a garage floor or a paved driveway. Engage the parking brake and block the wheels to prevent accidental movement. Chock the front wheels and place additional blocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.

Step 2: Position the Hoist

Position the hoist so that it is centred under the vehicle. The hoist should be placed at designated lifting points, which can be found in the vehicle's service manual. These points are typically located on the vehicle's frame or reinforced areas of the underbody. Ensure that the hoist arms or lifts are correctly aligned with these lifting points.

Step 3: Raise the Vehicle

With the hoist properly positioned, you can now safely raise the vehicle. This process should be done slowly and with extreme care to avoid any accidental damage to the vehicle or injury to yourself. Ensure that the vehicle is securely attached to the hoist according to the manufacturer's instructions. Continue raising the vehicle until the fuel tank is accessible from below.

Step 4: Secure the Vehicle

Once the vehicle is raised to the desired height, ensure that it is securely supported by the hoist. Check that all connections are tight and secure before proceeding. It is crucial to follow the hoist manufacturer's instructions for safe use and weight capacity to prevent accidents.

With the vehicle securely raised on the hoist, you can now proceed with the fuel pump replacement procedure, specifically the steps involved in removing and lowering the fuel tank, as outlined in the previous response. Remember to exercise caution when lowering the fuel tank, as noted in the source.

Remove the sender unit and pump by turning the cam lock counter-clockwise

To remove the sender unit and pump by turning the cam lock counter-clockwise, you will need to use tool J36608. This will require extreme care to avoid damaging the fuel sender, which is made of plastic.

First, relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable. Then, raise the vehicle on a hoist. When lowering the fuel tank, be cautious as the fuel sender is made of plastic and can be easily damaged. Remove the fuel tank, then turn the cam lock counter-clockwise to release the sender unit and pump. Pull the fuel pump up and out, being careful not to damage the rubber insulator or strainer.

Inspect the rubber sound insulation at the bottom of the pump and the fuel pump attaching hose for any signs of deterioration. If everything looks good, you can move on to installing the new fuel pump.

To install the new fuel pump, insert the assembly into the attaching hose. Make sure not to fold or twist the strainer when installing the sending unit, as this will restrict fuel flow. Place the cam lock assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it into place. Install the fuel tank and connect the negative battery cable. Finally, check the system for leaks.

Re-install the fuel pump assembly into the attaching hose

To re-install the fuel pump assembly into the attaching hose of a 1997 Oldsmobile Bravada, follow these steps:

Firstly, it is important to note that you should not fold or twist the strainer when installing the sending unit, as this action restricts fuel flow. Now, install the sending unit and fuel pump assembly into the fuel tank. Insert a new O-ring seal. Install the cam lock assembly. Turn the cam lock clockwise to lock it. Install the fuel tank. Connect the negative battery cable. Finally, check the system for leaks.

It is also important to exercise extreme care when lowering the fuel tank, as the fuel sender is made of plastic and may be damaged.

Frequently asked questions