Replacing The Fuel Pump In A '99 Grand Am Gt

how to replace fuel pump 1999 grand am gt

Replacing the fuel pump in a 1999 Grand Am GT can be a challenging task. The pump is located inside the fuel tank, which means you'll need to drain the tank and relieve the fuel system pressure before starting. You'll also need to raise and support the vehicle, disconnect various fittings and hoses, and remove the fuel tank retaining straps before you can access the pump. It's important to have an assistant to help support the fuel tank during this process. Once you have access to the pump, you can disconnect the wiring harness and remove the old pump. Make sure to inspect all connectors and O-rings for dirt and damage, and replace any components as needed. Reinstall the new fuel pump, reconnect all the hoses and fittings, and refill the fuel tank. Finally, reconnect the negative battery cable and inspect for any fuel leaks.

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Drain the fuel tank

To drain the fuel tank of a 1999 Grand Am GT, you will need to relieve the fuel system pressure. Then, raise the vehicle and disconnect the quick-connect fitting at the fuel filter. Disconnect the quick-connect fittings at the end of the fuel lines. Remove the rubber exhaust hangers and allow the exhaust system to rest on the rear axle. Loosen the fuel filler hose clamp at the fuel tank and remove the hoses from the fuel tank filler, the EVAP vent, and the EVAP vapor pipes.

Disconnect the electrical harness from the multi-way rear body connector and fuel strap. With the help of an assistant, support the fuel tank and disconnect the two fuel tank retaining straps. Now you can lower the fuel tank.

Please note that this is a complex procedure and it is recommended to consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps.

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Disconnect the quick-connect fitting at the fuel filter

Disconnecting the quick-connect fitting at the fuel filter of a 1999 Grand Am GT requires careful attention to safety precautions and a few tools. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Safety First

Before beginning any work on your fuel system, it is crucial to take the necessary safety precautions. Fuel is highly flammable, and the fuel system is under pressure, so you must release the pressure and disconnect the battery before proceeding.

Release Fuel System Pressure

Refer to your vehicle's service manual for the specific procedure to release the fuel system pressure. This step is essential to avoid the risk of fuel spray or leakage, which could be dangerous.

Disconnect the Negative Battery Cable

Locate the negative cable connected to the battery. This cable is typically marked with a minus (-) sign or a black cover. Carefully disconnect this cable from the battery terminal.

Access the Fuel Filter

The fuel filter is usually located along the fuel line between the fuel tank and the engine. You may need to raise and support the vehicle to access it easily. Make sure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands or ramps before proceeding.

Prepare the Work Area

As you will be working with fuel lines, it is important to be prepared for any potential spills or leaks. Place shop towels or a suitable absorbent material around the work area to catch any spilled fuel.

Disconnecting the Quick-Connect Fitting

Now, you are ready to disconnect the quick-connect fitting at the fuel filter. This type of fitting typically has tabs or a ring that you need to depress or squeeze to release. Here are some detailed steps to guide you:

  • Depress the Tabs or Ring: Depending on the design of your quick-connect fitting, you may need to depress a ring or tabs to release the connection. Use your fingers or an appropriate tool, such as a fuel line disconnect set, to perform this step. Be careful not to force anything if it doesn't seem to fit; using excessive force can damage the fitting.
  • Twist and Pull: Once you have depressed the tabs or ring, try twisting the fitting slightly while maintaining downward pressure. This action should begin to release the connection. As you twist, gently pull the fitting away from the fuel filter to fully disconnect it.
  • Use Penetrating Oil or Lubricant: If the connection is stubborn and doesn't release easily, you may need to apply some penetrating oil or lubricant to the fitting. Allow it to sit for a while before attempting to disconnect again. You can also try using compressed air to blow into the open ends of the fitting to remove any debris that might be preventing the release.
  • Consider Cutting the Nipple: If all else fails, and the fitting still won't release, you may need to consider cutting the nipple flush with the filter. This will require you to deal with the broken end left in the fitting, but it can be a last resort if other methods don't work.

Remember to work carefully and deliberately when dealing with fuel system components. Take your time and follow the safety precautions to ensure a successful and safe fuel pump replacement on your 1999 Grand Am GT.

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Remove the exhaust heat shield

To remove the exhaust heat shield from your 1999 Pontiac Grand Am, you will first need to drain the fuel tank. Next, relieve the fuel system pressure. Now, raise and support the vehicle. Disconnect the quick-connect fitting at the fuel filter. Disconnect the quick-connect fittings at the end of the fuel lines.

Now, to remove the exhaust heat shield, you will first need to remove the rubber exhaust hangers. This will allow the exhaust system to rest on the rear axle. After this, you can loosen the fuel filler hose clamp at the fuel tank. Finally, you can remove the exhaust heat shield itself.

This is a complex procedure, so be sure to refer to a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any of the steps.

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Disconnect the electrical harness from the multi-way rear body connector

Disconnecting the electrical harness from the multi-way rear body connector is a crucial step in accessing and replacing the fuel pump in a 1999 Pontiac Grand Am GT. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Before beginning any work, it is essential to ensure your safety. Make sure the car is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks around the tires for added safety.

Step 2: Open the hood of your car and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any accidental electrical shorts.

Step 3: Locate the fuel tank. The fuel pump in the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am GT is located inside the fuel tank, so you will need to gain access to it.

Step 4: Drain the fuel tank completely. This is important for safety and to avoid spills during the replacement process.

Step 5: Relieve the fuel system pressure. This step is crucial for safety and to reduce the risk of fire. Refer to your car's repair manual for specific instructions on how to do this.

Step 6: Jack up the car and securely support it on jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable and will not shift or lower unexpectedly.

Step 7: Disconnect the quick-connect fittings at the end of the fuel lines and the fuel filter. These are typically located near the fuel tank.

Step 8: Remove the rubber exhaust hangers to allow the exhaust system to rest on the rear axle. This will provide better access to the fuel tank and the connector.

Step 9: Remove the exhaust heat shield. This will expose the fuel tank and provide access to the multi-way rear body connector.

Step 10: Loosen and remove the fuel filler hose clamp at the fuel tank. You may need a screwdriver or a wrench for this step.

Step 11: Disconnect the hoses from the fuel tank filler, the EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control System) vent, and the EVAP vapor pipes. These hoses will lead to the multi-way rear body connector.

Step 12: Now you are ready to disconnect the electrical harness from the multi-way rear body connector. It is usually attached to the fuel strap and the fuel tank. Carefully detach the harness from the connector. You may need to wiggle it gently or use a flat-head screwdriver to carefully pry it off if it is stuck.

Step 13: Once the electrical harness is disconnected, carefully move it away from the connector and the fuel tank to prevent any accidental reconnection or damage.

Step 14: At this point, you may need to lower the fuel tank slightly to gain better access to the fuel pump. Make sure the tank is securely supported at all times.

Step 15: Continue with the fuel pump replacement process, following the manufacturer's instructions or a repair manual for your specific vehicle.

Remember to work carefully and refer to a repair manual for your vehicle whenever necessary. Always put safety first when working on your car.

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Remove the fuel sender assembly from the tank

To remove the fuel sender assembly from the tank of a 1999 Pontiac Grand Am, you will need to first relieve the fuel system pressure and drain the fuel tank. Next, raise the vehicle and disconnect the quick-connect fitting at the fuel filter. Disconnect the quick-connect fittings at the end of the fuel lines. Remove the rubber exhaust hangers and allow the exhaust system to rest on the rear axle. Remove the exhaust heat shield. Loosen the fuel filler hose clamp at the fuel tank and remove the hoses from the fuel tank filler, the EVAP vent, and the EVAP vapor pipes.

Disconnect the electrical harness from the multi-way rear body connector and fuel strap. With the help of an assistant, support the fuel tank and disconnect the two fuel tank retaining straps. Lower the fuel tank. Disconnect the wiring harness from the modular fuel sender assembly and the fuel tank pressure sensor. Finally, disconnect the EVAP pipe and the fuel pipe from the modular fuel sender and the fill limiter vent valve. At this point, you can remove the fuel sender assembly from the tank.

Frequently asked questions

The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank. You will need to remove the fuel tank to replace the pump.

Here is a list of steps to replace the fuel pump:

- Drain the fuel tank.

- Relieve the fuel system pressure.

- Raise and support the vehicle.

- Disconnect the quick-connect fitting at the fuel filter.

- Disconnect the quick-connect fittings at the end of the fuel lines.

- Remove the rubber exhaust hangers and rest the exhaust system on the rear axle.

- Remove the exhaust heat shield.

- Loosen the fuel filler hose clamp and remove the hoses from the fuel tank filler, EVAP vent, and EVAP vapor pipes.

- Disconnect the electrical harness from the multi-way rear body connector and fuel strap.

- With an assistant, support the fuel tank and disconnect the fuel tank retaining straps.

- Lower the fuel tank.

- Disconnect the wiring harness from the modular fuel sender assembly and the fuel tank pressure sensor.

- Disconnect the EVAP pipe and the fuel pipe from the modular fuel sender and the fill limiter vent valve.

- Remove the fuel sender assembly from the tank.

You will need a wrench key and a hammer.

The most common cause of pump failure is not changing the fuel filter annually. The fuel filter gets clogged due to the ethanol in gasoline, causing the filter material to crumble and plug up the filter. The pump cannot function and burns up. Another cause of pump failure is the brushes wearing down after many hours of use.

Jolting while accelerating and a drop in performance or fuel economy often point to a fuel pump problem.

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