Katerina Swanson
The fuel pump in a 1999 Ford F350 diesel is located inside the fuel tank and delivers fuel to the engine. It is a long-lasting piece of equipment but can sometimes fail. If you are experiencing issues with your fuel pump, you may need to unplug or replace it. The cost of replacing a fuel pump across all vehicles is roughly between $611 and $894, including parts and labor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel pump location | Along the inside frame rail, beneath the feet of the rear passenger on the driver's side |
| Fuel pump function | Delivers or "pumps" gas or diesel into the combustion chamber |
| Fuel pump replacement cost | $611 to $894 (including parts and labor) |
| Warning signs of a bad fuel pump | Engine "chokes" or struggles to maintain speed, car won't start, car stalls after starting, check engine light comes on, whirring sound from the fuel tank |
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What You'll Learn
The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank
The fuel pump on a 1999 Ford F350 diesel is located inside the fuel tank. This is a standard feature of modern vehicles, which have replaced the old mechanical pumps attached outside the fuel tank with electronic fuel injection.
The fuel pump is a hardy piece of equipment, but it can occasionally fail. If your engine is choking or struggling to maintain speed, this may be a warning sign that your fuel pump is failing. If you ignore these symptoms, your engine will eventually fail to start.
If you need to replace your fuel pump, you will need to gain access to the top of the fuel tank, either through an access panel in the passenger compartment or by removing the tank from the vehicle. This is a moderately complicated job, and it is recommended that you take your vehicle to a dealership service department to have it done.
You can purchase the fuel pump itself for $150 or less at many parts stores. However, the total cost of replacing a fuel pump, including parts and labor, can range from $611 to $894 on average.
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Access the pump through the top of the tank
To access the fuel pump through the top of the tank, you will need to locate the access panel in the passenger compartment. This is usually found along the inside frame rail, possibly just beneath the feet of the rear passenger on the driver's side.
Once you have located the access panel, you will need to remove it to access the fuel pump. Be sure to place a container under the opening to catch any spilled fuel. With the access panel removed, you should now be able to see and access the fuel pump.
The fuel pump is a critical component of your vehicle's fuel system, delivering fuel from the tank to the carburetor or engine. It is designed to be long-lasting, but like any part, it can fail. Signs of a failing fuel pump include an engine that chokes or struggles to maintain speed, and eventually, the engine will not start at all.
If you suspect that your fuel pump is failing, it is best to consult a mechanic or take your vehicle to a service center that specializes in Ford vehicles for diagnosis and repair. While it is possible to access and replace the fuel pump yourself, it is a moderately complicated job, and your safety should always be a top priority.
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Alternatively, remove the truck bed or fuel tank
To unplug the fuel pump on a 1999 Ford F350 diesel, an alternative method is to remove the truck bed or the fuel tank. This is because the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, making it inaccessible without removing the truck bed or the fuel tank.
Removing the Truck Bed
To remove the truck bed, you will need to either have four people or use a two-post lift. The two-post lift is considered a safer option, but some people have used other methods such as a hoist from rafters. First, spray the bed bolts with PB Blaster and allow it to soak from the bottom. You will need a torch and several big Torx-Plus bits, as the regular Torx bits are likely to break. The size of the bits varies depending on the year of the truck. If necessary, you can weld a nut to the bolt top.
Once the bolts are loose, carefully lift the bed off the truck frame, ensuring you clear the fuel fill hoses. After removing the bed, you can repair any rust damage and install a new bed. When installing a new bed, you will need to rewire the bed harness and drill new holes for the fuel filler assembly.
Removing the Fuel Tank
Before removing the fuel tank, ensure that it is empty. Then, place something underneath the tank, such as jack stands or a 5-gallon pail, to prevent it from dropping too quickly. Next, disconnect the fuel fill line, either from the tank or the body. Disconnect the electric connection, vapor lines, and fuel lines from the top of the tank. Remove the tank straps, which will free the tank. Finish disconnecting any remaining components before lowering the tank completely.
Once the fuel tank is removed, you will have access to the fuel pump. To replace the fuel pump, first remove the lock ring using a pair of huge channel locks or a large pipe wrench. Be careful not to break this piece. With the lock ring removed, pull up on the unit to expose the wires and the fuel pump. Undo the snap rings on the side of the plastic casing and gently pull up on the unit. Using a small adjustable wrench, undo the small screws on the top of the plastic casing. Now you have direct access to the fuel pump and can replace it.
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Warning signs of a bad fuel pump
The fuel pump is a critical component in your Ford F350's fuel system, responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine. While it is designed to be long-lasting, it can occasionally fail, and when this happens, it can wreak havoc on your vehicle's performance. Here are some warning signs to watch out for that indicate a bad fuel pump:
Engine Stalling or Failing to Start
One of the most common signs of a fuel pump issue is an engine that stalls or fails to start. This often occurs because the engine isn't receiving enough fuel, which is the result of a failing fuel pump. The engine may choke or struggle to maintain speed, and if ignored for too long, it will eventually fail to start.
Sputtering or Jerking at High Speeds
If your Ford F350 is sputtering, jerking, or struggling to accelerate at high speeds, it could be a sign that the fuel pump is not providing adequate fuel to the engine. This can cause the vehicle to lose power and struggle to maintain speed.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency
A bad fuel pump can lead to a significant decrease in fuel efficiency. If the pump is not functioning properly, the vehicle may require more fuel to travel the same distance, resulting in decreased gas mileage.
Whining Noise
If you hear a loud, high-pitched whining noise coming from the fuel tank area while driving, it could indicate that the fuel pump is having trouble. This noise may be a result of the pump struggling to function properly.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light on your Ford F350's dashboard is an indication that something is amiss. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may have detected a problem with the fuel pump or fuel system, triggering the warning light.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it's important to consult a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. A fuel pump replacement is typically the only solution, and while it can be a costly repair, addressing the issue promptly can prevent further damage and more expensive repairs down the road.
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Take your car to a service centre
If you are experiencing issues with your 1999 Ford F350 diesel, such as sputtering, a loss of power, or the engine struggling to maintain speed, it may be related to the fuel pump. The fuel pump is a critical component of your vehicle, delivering fuel to the engine for combustion. While some people may attempt to fix it themselves, taking your car to a service centre is the best course of action.
Service centres have trained professionals who are experts in vehicle maintenance and repairs. They will be able to accurately diagnose the issue with your Ford F350 and determine if the fuel pump or another component is at fault. This is important because the symptoms of a faulty fuel pump can sometimes be caused by other issues, such as electrical problems, a clogged filter, or wiring issues. By taking your car to a service centre, you can avoid the hassle and potential dangers of working on your vehicle yourself.
Additionally, the fuel pump on your 1999 Ford F350 diesel is located inside the fuel tank, which can make it challenging to access. The mechanics at a service centre will have the necessary tools, equipment, and knowledge to safely access the fuel pump and perform any required repairs or replacements. They will also be able to inspect other components of your vehicle to ensure that everything is in proper working order, preventing potential future issues.
Taking your car to a service centre that specialises in Ford vehicles or has experience working on Ford F350s can be advantageous. These centres will have mechanics who are familiar with the unique characteristics and common issues of your vehicle, allowing them to provide more targeted and efficient services. They may also have access to Ford-specific tools and parts, ensuring that any repairs or replacements are done with the correct equipment.
By choosing to take your car to a service centre, you can benefit from their expertise, resources, and facilities. They will be able to provide a more permanent solution to your fuel pump issues, ensuring that your vehicle is safe and reliable for the long term. While it may come at a cost, taking your car to a service centre can save you time, effort, and the potential risks associated with DIY repairs, making it a wiser decision overall.
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Frequently asked questions
Your engine may choke or struggle to maintain speed. Your car may also not start, or stall once it has started. You may also hear a whirring sound coming from your fuel tank.
Take your car to a service centre that works on Ford vehicles.
The fuel pump is located inside your fuel tank.
The average national cost for a fuel pump replacement across all vehicles is roughly between $611 and $894 (including parts and labour) depending on the age of your vehicle.
