Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your Classic 1986 Continental

Replacing the fuel pump on a 1986 Continental can be a challenging task, but with careful attention to detail, it is certainly achievable. The process may vary slightly depending on the specific model of the 1986 Continental, but here is a general overview of the steps involved:

Begin by relieving the fuel system pressure and disconnecting the battery ground cable. Remove the fuel filler door and neck housing, and disconnect the drain hose. Unscrew the metal retainer holding the fuel filler hose to the tank's flange. Place a wooden block on a floor jack and use it to support the tank. Unfasten the straps securing the tank and swing them out of the way.

Lower the fuel tank partially and depress the tabs on the side of the fuel line fittings to remove the lines from the fuel sending unit assembly. Unplug the electrical connector from the assembly. Clean the top of the assembly and surrounding area to prevent dirt and grease from falling into the tank.

Remove the bolts securing the assembly to the tank and carefully lift it out, along with the O-ring seal. Install the new fuel pump into the assembly, reconnecting the retainers and hoses. Place a new O-ring seal on a clean shop rag, spray it with white lithium grease, and place it on the fuel tank opening.

Reinstall the fuel sending unit assembly, ensuring a secure fit. Raise the fuel tank back into position and secure it with the straps. Secure the metal retainer from the fuel filler hose to the tank's flange. Refill the tank with fuel, replace the fuel filler cap, and check for any fuel leaks.

Finally, attach the negative battery cable, turn the ignition switch on and off several times to pressurize the fuel system, and start the engine. Check again for any fuel leaks, and you're done!

Remove the fuel door, rubber boot, bolts from sender, and pull up the sender from the tank

To remove the fuel door, you will need to locate the fuel filler cap cable and remove it from the fuel neck. Place this aside and then open the fuel door. Now, you can access the fuel filler neck and remove the mounting screws or bolts attached to the cutaway.

Next, the rubber boot can be removed. First, lower the fuel tank a little and take a transmission jack or similar and place it under the fuel tank. Loosen and remove the straps to the fuel tank. Then, disconnect the harness from the connector by reaching up on top of the fuel tank to access it. Now, lower the fuel tank further to gain access to the vent hose attached to the tank. Remove the clamp and small vent hose. Note that vehicles from 1996 onwards may have a return fuel charcoal canister attached to the vent hose.

Now, you can remove the fuel filler neck. Twist the fuel filler neck and pull it out of the rubber hose. Guide it out of the area and remove it from the vehicle.

Finally, to remove the bolts from the sender and pull up the sender from the tank, you will need to clean any dirt and debris from around the fuel pump and sender mounting area. Then, remove the mounting bolts to the fuel pump and sender. You may need to rotate the fuel sender to get the float out of the fuel tank. Pull out the fuel pump and sender from the fuel tank and remove the rubber seal from the tank.

Relieve the fuel system pressure

To relieve the fuel system pressure on a 1986 Continental, follow these steps:

Firstly, locate the fuel pump fuse in the fuse box. Remove the fuse, then turn the key in the ignition to the 'on' position, but do not start the engine. This will activate the fuel pump for a few seconds, releasing the pressure in the fuel lines.

Alternatively, if you are unable to start the car, you can relieve the pressure by locating the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. This is usually found on the side closest to the passenger side of the car, and often has a small black plastic cap. With the engine off, there should be residual pressure in the fuel rail. To release this pressure, simply press the little rod inside the valve, which will cause a quick spurt of fuel to be released.

If you are still concerned about pressure in the fuel lines, you can disconnect the power supply to the fuel pump and crank the engine for a short time. This will open the injectors and vent any remaining fuel pressure.

Remember to exercise caution when working with fuel and always ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area.

Siphon the fuel from the tank

To siphon the fuel from the tank of your 1986 Continental, you will need a length of clear plastic tubing that is 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter and a closed gas container, such as a gas can. You will also need a rag or towel, and optionally, a small air compressor or bike pump.

Step 1: Prepare the Tubing

For this method, you will need two lengths of tubing. One length should be long enough to reach deep into the gas tank, and the other should be shorter, reaching just inside the tank. You can either use two separate tubes or cut one length of tubing to create two smaller lengths.

Step 2: Position the Gas Can

Place the gas can on the ground near the opening of the car's gas tank. This positioning will allow gravity to assist with the fuel flow.

Step 3: Feed the Tubing into the Tank

Insert both tubes into the tank, with the longer tube reaching well into the gas tank and the shorter tube just a few inches inside. Ensure that the end of the longer tube is fully submerged in the gasoline by carefully blowing into the tube and listening for bubbles.

Step 4: Create a Seal

Use a rag or towel to create a tight seal around the tubes. This step is crucial as it helps increase air pressure in the tank, facilitating the displacement of gas through the longer tube. Wet rags generally create a tighter seal than dry ones.

Step 5: Increase Air Pressure

Blow air into the short tube to increase the air pressure inside the tank. You can use your lungs, but be cautious not to inhale any fumes. Alternatively, you can use a mechanical air pump. This increased pressure will force the gas out of the tank and into the longer tube.

Step 6: Monitor the Gas Flow

As you blow air into the tank, you should see the gas flowing through the longer tube into the gas can. Once the gas is flowing freely, you can stop blowing, as gravity will take over.

Step 7: Stop the Siphoning Process

When you have siphoned enough gas, cover the long tube with your thumb, raise it above the level of gas in the tank, and remove your thumb. Any remaining gas in the tube should flow back into the tank.

Alternative Method: Using Air Pressure

Another approach to siphoning gas is by using air pressure. Insert one end of the siphon hose into the gas tank and the other end into the container. Then, use a small air compressor or bike pump to create pressure in the container. This pressure will force the gas out of the tank and into the container. However, be cautious, as too much pressure can cause the gas tank to rupture or explode.

Always remember to dispose of the gas properly and follow safety precautions when working with gasoline.

Disconnect the fuel lines, fuel vapour line and electrical connector

Disconnecting the fuel lines, fuel vapour line, and electrical connector is a crucial step when replacing the fuel pump on a 1986 Lincoln Continental. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Firstly, relieve the fuel system pressure to ensure no fuel is left in the lines. This is an essential safety precaution. Next, disconnect the battery ground cable. Now, you can remove the fuel filler door, which will give you access to the fuel tank and pump assembly.

You will then need to remove the fuel tank filler neck housing and disconnect the drain hose. This will give you more space to work with and access the necessary components. Once you have done this, you can start to disconnect the fuel lines, fuel vapour line, and electrical connector.

It is important to note that the fuel lines and vapour line may be difficult to remove due to fuel deposits. Before attempting to disconnect them, clean the fittings with a pressure washer or similar tool to remove any dirt or deposits. You may also need to use a suitable lubricant, such as PB Blaster, to help release the lines.

Now, to disconnect the fuel lines, you will need to use the correct fuel line disconnect tool. There are various types available, including plastic, metal, and scissor-like tools. Ensure you have the right size for your specific fuel line. Push the fuel line towards the filter and insert the tool fully while holding the coupling firmly together. With the tool inserted, squeeze and twist it to release the balls/claws, and then pull the line away.

For the fuel vapour line, you will need to push the clip in towards the tank while firmly pulling outward on the vapour line to release it. As for the electrical connector, simply locate it and disconnect it from the fuel pump assembly.

Remember to work with caution and refer to a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any steps.

Unfasten the bolts securing the assembly to the tank

To unfasten the bolts securing the assembly to the tank, you will need a Phillips screwdriver. Before you begin, ensure you have unplugged the electrical connector from the assembly and depressed the two tabs on the side of the fuel line fittings with your fingers, pulling both lines off the fuel sending unit assembly.

Now, with a clean shop rag, wipe down the top of the assembly and the surrounding area to prevent dirt and grease from falling into the tank. Once this is done, you can begin to unfasten the bolts with the Phillips screwdriver. Carefully lift the assembly out of the fuel tank, along with the O-ring seal between the assembly and the tank opening.

It is important to note that fuel vapors can easily ignite and cause serious injury, so ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area away from appliances with open flames.

Frequently asked questions