Replacing The Fuel Pump On A Classic 1982 Imperial

Replacing the fuel pump on a 1982 Imperial can be a challenging task. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and accessing it may require dropping the tank or removing it entirely. Before beginning the replacement process, it is essential to drain the fuel tank and disconnect the battery. When replacing the fuel pump, it is crucial to follow safety protocols and refer to a repair manual or seek assistance from a qualified mechanic. Additionally, it is recommended to inspect and replace the fuel hoses, electrical connections, and other relevant components to ensure optimal fuel system performance.

The fuel pump is located in the fuel tank

Once you have access to the fuel tank, you will need to disconnect the battery and remove the fuel pump from the "rack" it is mounted on. Be sure to transfer the rubber silencer pad to the new pump, as the new pump will be slightly smaller in diameter than the old one. You will also need to check the fuel filters, which are mounted under the body at the passenger side "A" post, and replace the fuel hoses, as the originals are not rated for use with modern fuels.

The correct fuel pump for the '81 / '83 EFI Imperials from NAPA is the Airtex number P-74051. This pump is designed to be mounted inside the tank and has an output of 29 gallons per hour @ 12 volts and 12 psi. It is 5 1/4" long and 3 5/8" in diameter, with an insulation jacket, and has the correct electrical terminals. The cost of this pump is $84.00.

It is important to note that the fuel pump requires lubrication from the fuel going through it, so you should always keep at least 6 gallons of gas in the tank to maintain a cooling medium for the pump.

You will need to drain the fuel tank

To drain the fuel tank, you will need to locate the drain plug. This is usually found at the bottom of the tank. Once you have located the drain plug, place a drain pan or container underneath it to catch the fuel. You may also want to wear gloves and eye protection for this step.

Next, remove the drain plug using a wrench or socket. Allow the fuel to drain completely from the tank. You may need to tilt the vehicle or use a siphon to get all the fuel out. Be very careful when handling the fuel, as it is highly flammable.

Once the tank is drained, you will need to dispose of the fuel properly. Do not pour it down the drain or into the environment. You can take it to a local hazardous waste facility or recycling center. Some gas stations may also accept used fuel for disposal.

Now that the tank is drained, you can begin the process of replacing the fuel pump. This may involve removing the fuel tank from the vehicle, depending on the specific model of your 1982 Imperial. Refer to a repair manual or seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about the next steps.

Disconnect the fuel hoses and electrical connection to the tank

Disconnecting the fuel hoses and electrical connection to the tank is a crucial step in replacing the fuel pump on a 1982 Imperial. Here's a detailed guide on how to approach this task:

Firstly, locate the fuel hoses and electrical connection. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, so you'll need to access the tank and identify the hoses and electrical components connected to it. Ensure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, before proceeding.

Now, let's discuss the steps for disconnecting the fuel hoses:

• Identify the type of fuel line connector: There are various types of fuel line connectors, such as push-type, push-and-lock, pinch-type, spring-style retainer, hose and clamp style, and horseshoe-type connectors. Identify which type(s) your 1982 Imperial has.
• Disconnect the fuel lines: Depending on the type of connector, the process for disconnecting the fuel lines will vary. For example, with push-type connectors, you might need to push from both sides or only one side to release it. For push-and-lock connectors, you'll need to release the safety latch before pushing the connector back through. Refer to a guide specific to your car model for detailed instructions on disconnecting each type of connector.
• Use appropriate tools if needed: In some cases, you may need to use tools like pliers or a screwdriver to assist in disconnecting the fuel lines. For instance, with hose and clamp-style fittings, use pliers to pinch the clamp together before sliding it back and pulling the line off.
• Be cautious of fuel spillage: When disconnecting the fuel lines, be cautious of any fuel spillage. Have absorbent rags or a drip pan ready to catch any spilled fuel.

Now, for the electrical connection:

• Locate the electrical connector: Identify the electrical connector that supplies power to the fuel pump. It should be connected to the fuel pump's wiring harness.
• Disconnect the electrical connector: Depending on the connector type, you may need to release a locking mechanism or simply pull the connector apart. Ensure you disconnect the correct wires, referring to your car's repair manual if necessary.
• Prevent spark or electrical short: Before disconnecting the electrical connection, ensure the battery is disconnected to prevent any sparks or electrical shorts. This is crucial for safety.

Remember, always refer to your vehicle's repair manual or seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you're unsure about any steps or procedures. Working on fuel systems can be dangerous, so proceed with caution and ensure a safe working environment.

Check the fuel pump ballast resistor

To check the fuel pump ballast resistor on your 1982 Imperial, you'll need to perform a few tests. First, check for power on both sides of the fuel pump ballast resistor. If there is power on both sides, the ballast resistor is functioning correctly. If there is no power on either side, there may be a bad wire or a bad ground at the tank.

Next, measure the resistance of the fuel pump hot wire to ground. A reading of 5000 ohms is too high and indicates a problem with either the pump wiring or the pump itself. To confirm, you can check the resistance at the tank fittings by measuring from the dark green wire on the bullet connector to ground.

Additionally, verify the ground wire for the pump by measuring the voltage at the pump lead-in connector. If the voltage is within the normal range but the pump is still not functioning, the pump may have failed due to a lack of lubrication. In this case, consider replacing the pump with a suitable alternative, such as the Airtex P-74051 fuel pump.

Finally, if the ballast resistor is fine but there is still no power, check the shutdown module and the fuses. Ensure that the ignition switch wiring and fuse #2 are functioning correctly, and verify cavity #39 in the bulkhead connector. All of these places should show +12 volts when the key is in the start or run position. If any of them do not, trace the wire back to the source to identify the issue.

Measure the resistance of the pump wire to ground

To measure the resistance of the pump wire to ground on a 1982 Imperial, you will need a digital multimeter. This tool will help you determine whether the ground wire is faulty and causing issues with your fuel pump.

Step 1: Prepare the Multimeter

Turn on your digital multimeter and select OHM as the measuring unit. This setting will allow you to measure the electrical resistance of the circuit.

Step 2: Connect the Probes

Attach one probe of the multimeter to the negative terminal of your car battery. This is usually marked with a "-" sign or a black cover. Then, take the other probe and attach it to the pump wire you want to test. Ensure that the probe makes direct contact with the metal surface of the pump wire connection.

Step 3: Read the Measurement

Look at the display on your multimeter to read the resistance measurement. If the value is close to zero, it indicates a good ground connection. A safe ground typically reads less than 5 ohms. However, if the resistance is significantly higher, it suggests a faulty ground wire or connection.

Step 4: Test Different Ground Points

Repeat the above steps to test the resistance at different ground points in your car's electrical system. This is especially important if you have an amplifier or other electrical components installed. Test the ground connections near the amplifier and take note of the measurements.

Step 5: Improve the Ground Connection

If you find a high resistance spot with more than 5 ohms, you may need to improve the ground connection. You can do this by cleaning the contacts, tightening any loose connections, or adding a bonding strap or wire to reduce resistance.

By following these steps, you can effectively measure the resistance of the pump wire to ground on your 1982 Imperial and identify any issues with the ground connection. Remember to work carefully and consult a professional if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Frequently asked questions