Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your 89 Cherokee: Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing the fuel pump on a 1989 Jeep Cherokee is a challenging task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and safety precautions. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and accessing it requires lowering the tank and disconnecting various components. Before beginning, ensure you have a well-ventilated workspace, disconnect the negative battery terminal, and relieve the fuel system pressure. It is also recommended to drain the fuel tank or ensure it is less than half full to reduce the risk of spills. Once the necessary precautions are taken, the next steps involve disconnecting the filler neck, vent hose, fuel pump power supply, and fuel line. With these components disconnected, the fuel tank can be lowered, and the old fuel pump can be removed. The new fuel pump is then installed, and the process is reversed to reconnect all the components. While challenging, replacing the fuel pump on a 1989 Jeep Cherokee can be accomplished with careful attention to safety and procedure.

Disconnect the negative battery cable

Disconnecting the negative battery cable is an important first step when working on your 89 Cherokee's fuel pump. It's a safety precaution that can help prevent accidents. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Tools Required:

• Socket set (5/16"-3/4")
• Flat head screwdriver

Procedure:

• Locate the negative (black) battery cable: The negative cable is usually marked with a minus (-) sign or a black cover. It connects to the negative terminal on the battery.
• Loosen the cable nut: Use a socket wrench or a suitable size to loosen the nut that secures the cable to the terminal. Don't remove the nut completely; just loosen it enough to wiggle the cable.
• Disconnect the cable: Once the nut is loosened, carefully wiggle and pull the cable away from the terminal. Be gentle to avoid damaging the cable or terminal.
• Isolate the cable: Place the disconnected cable in a safe area where it cannot accidentally come into contact with the terminal. You can wrap the end of the cable with electrical tape for added safety.
• Work in a well-ventilated area: Always perform this type of work in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of flammable fumes. Avoid smoking or introducing any sources of heat or flame near the battery or fuel system.

Remember, safety should be your top priority when working on your vehicle's electrical and fuel systems. Take your time and follow established safety procedures to ensure a successful and accident-free fuel pump replacement.

Relieve fuel system pressure

To relieve fuel system pressure on a 1997-2001 Jeep Cherokee, follow these steps:

Locate the Schrader valve on the driver's side fuel rail. Remove the plastic cap from the valve. Place some rags or towels around the valve and a bin below it. As fuel is volatile, ensure you are wearing safety glasses and rubber gloves. Using a flat-head screwdriver, apply pressure to the Schrader valve pintle until pressure is removed from the system.

This process is part of a larger procedure for replacing the fuel pump on a 1997-2001 Jeep Cherokee.

Disconnect the fuel pump wiring harness

To disconnect the fuel pump wiring harness on a 1989 Jeep Cherokee, follow these steps:

First, locate the fuel pump wiring connector underneath the fuel tank. Pull the connector towards the tag on the fuel line that reads "FUEL". This will remove the connector from the mounting tab. Now, you need to open the red locking tab. Do this by pushing against the side that is more exposed. While doing this, also squeeze the black flexible tab on the connector. As you do this, pull the connectors apart.

It is important to note that you should always use jack stands when working under your Jeep. Never use a hydraulic floor jack alone when working under it. Additionally, please do this job in a well-ventilated area, and do not smoke or have any heat or flame sources in your working area.

Disconnect fuel line and vent line from the tank

Disconnecting the fuel line and vent line from the tank is a crucial step in replacing the fuel pump on your 89 Cherokee. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

First, locate the rubber vent hose and the metal hard line. They are usually connected to each other. Using a pair of pliers, twist and pull the rubber vent hose from the metal hard line. This will require some force, so make sure you have a good grip on the pliers.

Next, locate the gray plastic clip on the fuel line quick disconnect. Squeeze both sides of this clip and pull the black line away from the metal line. The fuel line and the vent hose should now be disconnected from each other.

At this point, you will need to remove the fuel tank strap nuts. Use a 9/16" wrench to hold the upper nut and another wrench to turn the lower nut. You can use a ratcheting wrench to make this process easier. Be careful not to completely remove the nuts, as the tank will fall. If you're having trouble removing the nuts, PB Blaster or a similar penetrating oil can help.

On the passenger side of the tank, you'll notice a heat shield. You have two options: you can either cut the heat shield where it connects to the fuel tank nut to create more room for fuel tank removal, or you can choose to move the trailer hitch assembly instead.

Now, locate the fuel filler hose and vent hose on the fuel door side of the tank. These are attached with hose clamps and can be loosened with a flat-head screwdriver or a socket. If they are difficult to reach, try rotating the hose until the clamp is accessible. Once the clamps are loose, use a screwdriver to pry the hoses off the fuel tank.

It's important to inspect the rubber hoses for any signs of softness or sponginess. If they feel soft or spongy, it's best to replace them before they develop leaks.

By following these steps, you will have successfully disconnected the fuel line and vent line from the tank on your 89 Cherokee. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary safety precautions when handling fuel system components.

Remove the fuel tank strap nuts

To remove the fuel tank strap nuts, you will need a 9/16" wrench to hold the upper nut and another wrench to turn the lower nut. Using a ratcheting wrench will make the process easier. It is important not to completely remove the nuts, as this will cause the tank to fall.

On the passenger side of the tank, there is a heat shield that can be cut where it connects to the fuel tank nut to create more room for fuel tank removal. Alternatively, if you choose not to cut the shield, you will need to move the trailer hitch assembly.

Using a penetrating oil, such as PB Blaster, will help with the tank strap nut removal. Once the nuts are loosened, you can proceed to the next step of removing the fuel filler hose and vent hose.

Frequently asked questions