Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your Classic '69 Ford Galaxie

Replacing the fuel pump on a classic car like the 1969 Ford Galaxie can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it is certainly achievable. The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the gas tank to the engine, and issues with it can lead to engine performance problems or even failure to start. Before attempting any repairs, it is crucial to ensure the car is on a level surface, the engine is cool, and there are no sources of ignition. The fuel pump on the 1969 Ford Galaxie is located on the side of the engine block, and the replacement process involves disconnecting the fuel lines, removing the old pump, and installing a new one. It is also important to relieve the pressure in the fuel system before starting work.

Remove the bolts, fuel lines, and filler tube

To remove the bolts, fuel lines, and filler tube when replacing the fuel pump on a 1969 Ford Galaxie, follow these steps:

Begin by locating the fuel pump on the side of the engine block. You will see two bolts and two fuel lines connected to it. Using the appropriate tools, loosen and remove the bolts. Next, carefully detach the two fuel lines from the fuel pump. Have some rags or a container ready to catch any fuel that may spill out. Once the fuel lines are disconnected, set them aside.

Now, let's move on to the filler tube. Open the gas filler door on the driver's rear quarter panel. You will see four sheet metal screws holding the filler tube flange in place. Remove these screws and work the filler tube up and out of the tank. It may come out easily, or you may need to wiggle it a bit as you're removing the tank. There is also a large O-ring in the tank that seals the filler tube. This O-ring may come out with the filler tube, so be careful not to lose it.

At this point, the bolts, fuel lines, and filler tube should be successfully removed, and you can proceed with replacing the fuel pump. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary precautions when working with fuel.

Drain the gas tank

To drain the gas tank of your 1969 Ford Galaxie, follow these steps:

Begin by opening the gas filler door on the driver's rear quarter panel. Remove the four sheet metal screws that hold the filler tube flange in place. Work the filler tube up and out of the tank, wiggling it gently if needed. The tank has a large O-ring that seals with the filler tube, so be careful not to dislodge it.

Next, remove the fuel line from the tank's sending unit and disconnect the electrical connection. Use a jack with a board placed between the tank and jack to support the tank and prevent it from falling. Loosen and remove the two tank strap nuts and the long bolts to free the tank.

With the filler tube and straps out of the way, carefully lower and remove the tank, placing it on a large piece of thin plywood to make it easier to slide out. Always ensure the tank is empty or almost empty before attempting to remove it, as a full tank can be awkward to handle due to sloshing.

It is also important to work smart and safe, avoiding any ignition sources or sparks during the process. Having a second person to assist you is highly recommended.

Disconnect the fuel gauge leads and fuel line

To disconnect the fuel gauge leads and fuel line of your 1969 Ford Galaxie, follow these steps:

Firstly, open the gas filler door on the driver's rear quarter panel. Remove the sheet metal screws holding the filler tube flange in place. Work the filler tube up and out of the tank, being mindful that it may need some wiggle room as the tank is lowered.

Next, remove the fuel line from the tank sending unit. This will involve breaking or cutting the hose clamp that holds the hose to the metal fill neck. It is recommended to replace this hose when reassembling.

Now, remove the electrical connection from the sending unit. This will likely involve a jack to support the tank and control its movement while you work.

Finally, with the tank supported, remove the retaining nuts and straps that secure the tank in place. With these removed, you can carefully lower and remove the tank, ensuring you are working safely and with a second person, if possible.

Once the tank is removed, you can access and disconnect the fuel gauge leads and the fuel line, as well as inspect and service other components as needed.

It is important to work safely and avoid any potential ignition sources, such as sparks, when working with fuel systems.

Remove the electrical connection from the sending unit

To remove the electrical connection from the sending unit of your 1969 Ford Galaxie, you'll need to first drain the gas tank to make the tank easier to manage. Even a small amount of gas can make the long tank awkward to handle due to sloshing. Next, open the gas filler door on the driver's rear quarter panel and remove the four sheet metal screws holding the filler tube flange in place. Work the filler tube up and out of the tank as much as possible—it may come out completely, or you may need to wiggle it a bit when the tank is about a quarter of the way out.

There is a large O-ring in the tank that the filler tube seals with, and this often comes out with the filler tube. Once you've dealt with the filler tube, remove the fuel line from the tank sending unit. Now, you can remove the electrical connection from the sending unit.

Use a jack with a good-sized board between the tank and jack to support the tank and prevent it from falling out. You don't need to lift the tank, just control it. Loosen the two tank strap nuts and remove the straps to get them out of the way. If they won't come out, just work around them. Finally, remove the long bolts, lower the tank, and work the filler tube out if it isn't already removed. It's a good idea to place a big piece of thin plywood on the floor for the tank to sit on, as this will help to slide the tank out when it is fully lowered.

Check for power at the dash gauge

To check for power at the dash gauge of your 1969 Ford Galaxie, you'll need to perform a few tests to determine if the issue lies with the gauge itself or the sending unit in the tank. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Check the Gauge's Initial Position

Turn the car off and observe the position of the fuel gauge needle. It should be sitting in the 'Empty' position when the car is turned off.

Step 2: Observe Gauge Movement

Turn the key to the 'On' position and watch the gauge. If the needle moves to the 'Full' position, it indicates that the gauge is functional, and the issue may lie elsewhere.

Step 3: Disconnect the Wire at the Gauge

• Locate the wire connected to the gauge that leads back to the sender in the tank. This may require removing the gauge panel for access.
• Disconnect this wire from the gauge. If the needle moves to the 'Empty' position, it confirms that the gauge is working correctly, and the issue is likely with the sending unit or its wiring.

Step 4: Check the Sending Unit

• If possible, access the sending unit in the tank and disconnect the wire from it. With the key in the 'On' position, observe the gauge. If the needle moves to the 'Empty' position, it indicates a problem with the sending unit or its wiring.
• If disconnecting the wire at the sending unit has no effect on the gauge, the issue may be a short in the wire between the gauge and the sending unit.

Step 5: Test the Wiring

• Check the wiring for any shorts or damage. A short in the wire between the gauge and the sending unit may cause the gauge to read incorrectly.
• Use a multimeter to test the resistance values of the sending unit and compare them to the specified values for your 1969 Ford Galaxie.

Frequently asked questions