Replacing Fuel Pump In Pontiac Bonneville: Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing the fuel pump on a 2000 Pontiac Bonneville can be a challenging task. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and accessing it often requires removing an access cover or even draining fuel. Before attempting any repairs, it is crucial to disconnect the battery to reduce the risk of fire.

Some difficulties in replacing the fuel pump on this model include working in a confined space and dealing with corrosion around the ring that holds the fuel pump to the tank. Specialized tools, such as the Kent-Moore fuel sender locking ring removal tool, can aid in removing the locking ring without generating sparks.

It is also important to note that fuel pump issues may be caused by other factors, such as a clogged fuel filter or a faulty fuel pressure regulator, so proper diagnosis is essential before replacing the pump.

Given the inherent dangers of working with the fuel system, it is generally recommended that fuel pump replacements be handled by experienced professionals.

Disconnect the battery

Disconnecting the battery of a 2000 Pontiac Bonneville is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

First, locate the battery. In the 2000 Pontiac Bonneville, the battery is located under the back seat of the vehicle. Open the back door and pull up on the front part of the rear seat cushion. You will find the battery in the middle.

Once you have located the battery, the next step is to disconnect it. Start by removing the vents carefully. Make sure to do this gently to avoid any damage. After removing the vents, proceed to disconnect the power cables. It is important to remove the ground cable first for safety reasons.

Now, you can remove the battery hold-down bolt using a socket or a wrench. The battery is now ready to be taken out. Carefully lift and remove the battery from its compartment.

It is recommended to handle the battery with care and wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, as batteries contain chemicals that can be harmful.

Additionally, it is important to note that the 2000 Pontiac Bonneville uses a specific type of battery with vents. Ensure that you have the correct battery size and vent tubes before installing a new battery.

By following these steps, you will be able to safely disconnect the battery of your 2000 Pontiac Bonneville.

Remove the access cover

To remove the access cover of your 2000 Pontiac Bonneville, you'll first need to disconnect the battery to reduce the risk of fire.

Next, locate the access cover. This will be inside the trunk of your car, or you can remove the entire back seat and work from inside the car.

Once you've located the access cover, you'll need to remove it by unscrewing or otherwise detaching it. Keep in mind that there may be major corrosion around the ring that holds the fuel pump to the tank, so you may need to use a specialty tool for this step. Soaking the ring area in a corrosion-penetrating solution like PB Blaster beforehand can also help.

After removing the access cover, you'll be able to access the fuel pump and proceed with the replacement.

Replace the pump and pre-pump filter screen

To replace the pump and pre-pump filter screen of a 2000 Pontiac Bonneville, you'll first need to disconnect the battery to reduce the chance of a fire. Next, you'll need to access the pump. In most cars, the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, so you'll need to remove an access cover in the trunk. If the pump is outside the tank, you'll need to disconnect the fuel lines to access it.

Once you've accessed the pump, you'll need to remove the old pump and install the new one. This may involve some wiggling and tilting to get the pump out through the access hole. Be sure to also replace the fuel filter and intake screen at the same time as the fuel pump.

After installing the new pump, you'll need to reconnect the battery and fuel lines, if applicable. Finally, check for any fuel leaks and ensure that the problem has been solved.

Check for leaks

To check for leaks, you will need to check the fuel pressure. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Turn off the ignition.
• Turn off the air conditioning system.
• Wrap a shop towel around the fuel pressure connection when connecting or disconnecting the gauge to reduce the risk of fire. The towel will absorb any fuel leakage that occurs.
• Thread the fitting on the pressure gauge hose onto the fuel pressure fitting.
• Place the bleed hose of the fuel pressure gauge into an approved gasoline container.
• Turn on the ignition.
• Bleed the air out of the fuel pressure gauge into an approved gasoline container.
• Turn off the ignition for 10 seconds.
• Turn on the ignition and take the following three readings, writing them down:

• Read fuel pressure Key On/Engine Off (KOEO) - should be above 50
• Key On/Engine Running (KOER) - mid to upper 40s is typical running fuel pressure
• Key on/engine running - disconnect the vacuum hose to the fuel pressure regulator and then reconnect it. When you do this, there should be approximately a 10 psi increase in fuel pressure until the vacuum hose is reconnected. If the pressure does not increase, you have a faulty FPR.

• You should not have any gasoline in the FPR vacuum hose.
• Watch the fuel pressure with the Key off the engine off and observe whether it rapidly or steadily drops. It shouldn't do either. If it does, this can cause hard starting due to insufficient fuel/pressure in the fuel lines initially. Causes include a faulty fuel pump check valve, a leaky fuel pressure regulator, or a leaking injector.

Additionally, service manuals list normal fuel pressures as:

• 2001-2004 VIN 1 & K KOEO 53-59 psi
• 2001-2004 VIN 1 & K KOER 3-10 psi less than above

Replace the retaining ring

To replace the retaining ring on your 2000 Pontiac Bonneville, you will first need to purchase a new one. The part you need is called a cam retainer, with the part number 25691383, and it costs around $6.

Before you begin, it is recommended that you soak the ring area in a penetrant like PB Blaster to help remove any corrosion. You can also apply grease to the new retaining ring before installation.

To remove the old retaining ring, you can use a screwdriver and hammer. It is recommended to grind down the tip of the screwdriver to a point, providing more thickness to the tool. Tap the retaining ring with the screwdriver and hammer until it loosens. Be careful not to strike the fuel tank with the hammer, as this could cause damage.

Once the old retaining ring is removed, you can install the new one. Ensure that you have cleaned and lubricated the new retaining ring before installation. You may need an assistant to help hold the fuel pump module while you install the new retaining ring.

Frequently asked questions