Replacing The Fuel Pump In A 92 Honda Hatch: Step-By-Step Guide

If your 1992 Honda Civic is facing fuel pump issues, you may need to replace it. The fuel pump is a hydraulic device that pumps gas from the gas tank to the engine through fuel lines. While fuel pumps are generally reliable, they will eventually need to be replaced. This process is relatively simple in the 1992 Honda Civic, but if you have any doubts, it is recommended to take your car to an auto shop. The steps to replace the fuel pump include removing the backseats, the pump cover, and various connections and clamps, before installing the new pump and reconnecting everything.

Removing the rear seat

To remove the rear seat of a 1992 Honda Civic, you will first need to firmly grab both ends of the seat. Pull upwards to remove the seat, wiggling it as you do so. Take the seat out of the car and place it somewhere safe to avoid damage.

Now, you should be able to see a bolt in the middle of the seat. Pull down on the pad to reveal it. Use a 10mm socket to unscrew the bolt. Once the bolt is out, pull the seat from the back and then up and out.

With the rear seat removed, you can now access the fuel pump.

Disconnecting the fuel lines

Before beginning, ensure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, and have a drip pan and rags nearby to catch any fuel spillage. Working near fuel poses a fire hazard, so ensure there are no sources of smoke or open flames nearby.

Now, let's get started with the fuel line disconnection process:

Step 1 – Remove the Rear Seats:

The fuel pump in your 1992 Honda Civic is accessible through the rear seats. Start by firmly grabbing both ends of the rear seat and pulling upwards, wiggling it as you pull. Take the seats out of the car and set them aside to avoid damage.

Step 2 – Locate the Fuel Lines:

Once the rear seats are removed, you will need to locate the fuel lines. They should be positioned behind the left rear wheel. To access them, you will need to remove the left rear wheel.

Step 3 – Disconnect the Fuel Lines:

There are typically four fuel lines that need to be disconnected: two hard lines, a high-pressure line, and a brass line that connects directly to the fuel tank. There may also be a large line for fuel input. Use the appropriate tools to carefully disconnect each line, ensuring that you have a rag or drip pan nearby to catch any fuel that may spill.

Step 4 – Handle Fuel Lines with Care:

Fuel lines contain flammable fuel, so it is important to work cautiously and avoid any actions that could create sparks. Ensure that the area is well-ventilated, and if you are smoking, extinguish all cigarettes and move away from the vehicle before beginning work.

Step 5 – Prepare for Reinstallation:

As you disconnect each fuel line, take note of its position and orientation to make reinstallation easier. Labeling the lines or taking photos can help you remember how to properly reconnect them. It is important to reconnect the fuel lines securely to prevent leaks and ensure the safe operation of your vehicle.

By following these steps, you can safely disconnect the fuel lines in your 1992 Honda Civic, bringing you one step closer to successfully replacing the fuel pump. Remember to work cautiously and refer to reliable sources for further guidance if needed.

Removing the fuel pump

To remove the fuel pump from a 1992 Honda Civic, you will first need to remove the rear seats and the metal cover over the pump. This will involve pulling upwards on the seats and using a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the bolts holding the cover in place. Once the cover is removed, you will need to disconnect various components before the pump can be retrieved, including the wiring connector, the clamp on the rubber hose, and the main fuel line. You will also need to unbolt the bracket holding the pump in place.

When disconnecting the fuel line and removing the pump, it is important to have a drip pan nearby to catch any fuel that may spill. Once the pump is disconnected, pull it upwards and out of its housing. At this point, you can also remove the fuel strainer if it needs to be replaced.

If your Honda Civic is a fourth or fifth-generation model, the process for removing the fuel pump is more involved. In these models, you will need to siphon the gas out of the tank, raise and secure the car, and disconnect the fuel-sending unit and multiple fuel lines. You will also need to remove the tank straps and lower the tank before you can access the fuel pump.

• Remove the rear seats: Grab both ends of the rear seat firmly and pull upwards, wiggling it as you pull. Take the seat out of the car and set it aside.
• Remove the pump cover: Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the four bolts holding the metal cover over the pump. Tilt the cover out of the way to gain access to the pump.
• Disconnect the wiring: Slip off the boot covering the wiring connector and unplug the connector.
• Remove the rubber hose: Use pliers to remove the clamp on the rubber hose connected to the pump.
• Disconnect the fuel line: Disconnect the main fuel line by squeezing it to remove it.
• Unbolt the bracket: Use a 10 mm socket and ratchet to unbolt the bracket holding the pump in place.
• Remove the pump: With the drip pan nearby, pull the pump upwards and out of its housing. You can also remove the fuel strainer if it needs to be replaced.

Installing the new pump

To install the new fuel pump, mount the new pump to its holder and position it correctly inside the gas tank. There is a small plastic container inside the tank; position the pump so that it sits inside this container, where the fuel pick-up is.

Next, place the old rubber gasket on the bottom of the pump and slide it back into the bracket. Install the new fuel filter on the bottom. The pump will not slide into the bracket if the filter is already installed, so this must be done prior to filter installation. Use a small socket to push the new retaining washer onto the filter cap.

Now, connect the two hose clamps for the union hose and connect the electrical connection. Place the pump assembly back into the tank, ensuring that the filter sits into the baffle. Tighten the bolts of the pump cover. Reconnect the fuel lines and the two electrical connections. One is for the pump, and the other is for the gauge.

Finally, turn the key to prime the new pump. Start the car when you can no longer hear the pump priming. Check for leaks.

Reattaching the rear seat

To reattach the rear seat of your 1992 Honda Civic, follow these steps:

First, ensure that the new fuel pump is installed securely and correctly. Check that all the relevant components are connected, including the plug, fuel strainer, fuel line, and rubber hose. Make sure the bracket is bolted back in place with six screws.

Next, you can begin reattaching the rear seat. First, locate the small latches on the front edge of the seat. Line up the latches with the corresponding fixtures in the car. Push the seat downwards and wiggle it into place. Ensure that the seat is secure and doesn't move around.

Once the seat is in place, you can adjust it to the desired position. Test the seat by sitting on it and moving it forward and backward to ensure it's secure and functioning properly.

Finally, conduct a test drive to ensure that the new fuel pump is working correctly and that there are no fuel leaks. If you encounter any issues, such as a check engine light, return to the fuel pump and double-check all the connections.

Remember to work cautiously and carefully when handling fuel-related components, and ensure there are no sources of smoke nearby to prevent the risk of fire or explosion.

Frequently asked questions