How To Replace Your Mechanical Fuel Pump In '86

Mechanical fuel pumps are essential components of automobiles, responsible for supplying fuel from the tank to the engine. However, like any other mechanical part, they are susceptible to wear and tear and may eventually require replacement. This is the case for the 1986 ('86) Ford F150 4.9L, where the owner experienced issues with their vehicle not starting, leading them to suspect a faulty fuel pump. Interestingly, the '86 Ford F150 offers both a mechanical fuel pump and an electric hot fuel option, providing flexibility for owners. This particular model has a strong following among classic car enthusiasts, who often seek guidance on forums for maintenance and repair, ensuring these vintage vehicles remain on the road.

Fuel pump replacement for classic Ford F150 trucks

The fuel pump is an essential component of your Ford F-150 truck's fuel system, delivering fuel from the tank to the engine. Over time, the fuel pump can deteriorate, leading to a loss of engine power or even rendering the car unable to start.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump

Before we dive into the replacement process, it's crucial to identify the signs of a malfunctioning fuel pump. Some common symptoms include:

• Hard starts
• Loss of power while towing or driving uphill
• Inadequate fuel supply to the engine
• Unusual engine noise
• Fuel leaks

Replacing the Fuel Pump

Now, let's get into the step-by-step process of replacing the fuel pump in your classic Ford F150 truck:

Step 1: Safety First

Park your truck on a flat and level surface, and ensure the engine is turned off. It is highly recommended to disconnect the battery to reduce the risk of fire during the repair process.

Step 2: Siphon the Fuel

Before accessing the fuel pump, you must siphon the fuel from the tank. Use a clear hose and an air pump to safely transfer the fuel to an appropriate storage container.

Step 3: Accessing the Fuel Pump

There are two common approaches to accessing the fuel pump:

Option 1: Removing the Fuel Tank

• Use a car jack to elevate your truck to a height that allows safe access to the fuel tank.
• Remove the heat shield by locating and unscrewing the bolts holding it in place with an impact wrench.
• Place two floor jacks with soft padding underneath the fuel tank to support it.
• Remove the bolts and straps holding the fuel tank in place, and carefully lower the jacks while holding the tank.
• Disconnect the fuel fill line using a hex socket.

Option 2: Removing the Truck Bed

• If you prefer not to work underneath the truck, you can opt to remove the truck bed.
• Use an impact wrench to remove the bed bolts and disconnect the fuel filler cap and neck clamp.
• Disconnect the wire harness for the bed lighting and the taillight plugs.
• With the help of two strong individuals or a hoist, lift the bed off the truck.

Step 4: Locating the Fuel Pump Module

Whether you chose to remove the fuel tank or the truck bed, you will now need to locate the fuel pump module. It is bolted onto the top of the fuel tank.

Step 5: Cleaning and Preparing the Module

Before removing the old fuel pump assembly, it is crucial to clean the dust and dirt from the top of the module to prevent contamination of the fuel tank. Use a plastic brush for this step.

Step 6: Removing the Old Fuel Pump Assembly

• Disconnect the fuel lines, evaporative hoses, and any other connections to the fuel pump module.
• Mark the alignment of the module on the fuel tank with a marker for future reference.
• Remove the bolts holding the module in place and carefully twist or pry the old fuel pump assembly out of the tank using a flathead screwdriver if necessary.

Step 7: Installing the New Fuel Pump Assembly

• Insert the new fuel pump assembly into the fuel tank, aligning it with the mark you made earlier.
• Secure the assembly with the bolts and reconnect all the fuel lines and hoses.

Step 8: Reassembling the Truck

Finally, it's time to put your truck back together. If you removed the fuel tank, reinstall it and reconnect all the necessary components, including the fuel fill line. If you removed the truck bed, reinstall it and reconnect the lights, gas fuel filler cap, and neck clamp.

Where to Buy a Replacement Fuel Pump

You can purchase a replacement fuel pump from authorised Ford dealerships or online sellers of OEM Ford parts. Online sellers typically offer more competitive prices, but ensure you are buying from a reputable source.

Cost Considerations

The cost of replacing a fuel pump in a Ford F-150 can vary, but on average, it ranges from $1,332 to $1,720. This includes both the cost of parts and labour. Remember to factor in your location and any applicable taxes and fees.

Mechanical fuel pump for Mazda B2000 B2200

Mechanical fuel pumps are used in older vehicles, like the 1986 Mazda B2000 and B2200, where they are driven by the camshaft and employ a rubber diaphragm to create suction.

Mazda B2000 Mechanical Fuel Pump Replacement

The fuel pump for a 1986 Mazda B2000 can be purchased from Amazon. The product is a direct-fit replacement, meaning it installs the same as the factory unit and has the same dimensions as the original part.

Mazda B2200 Mechanical Fuel Pump Replacement

The mechanical fuel pump for a 1986 Mazda B2200 can also be purchased from Amazon. This product is compatible with the 1986 B2200, as well as later models. It is a direct-fit replacement, meaning it installs the same as the factory unit and has the same dimensions as the original part.

Additional Information

It is important to note that fuel pumps can wear out, clog, or lose capacity over time, or they may suddenly fail to operate entirely. If your car won't start, you can listen near your fuel tank when you turn the key in the ignition. If your fuel pump is worn out or no longer functioning, you may hear a whining noise from the fuel tank, or it may not make any noise at all.

Fuel pump replacement for Toyota GR86

Fuel pumps are responsible for delivering fuel to the engine of your car. They are designed to be long-lasting, but sometimes they can fail and need to be replaced. Here is a guide on fuel pump replacement for the Toyota GR86.

Signs of a Bad Fuel Pump

• Engine "chokes" or struggles to maintain speed
• Noises, backfires, and a sputtering engine
• Hesitation at start or take-off
• Overheating engine
• "Check Engine" light is on

Where is the Fuel Pump Located?

In older cars, mechanical fuel pumps were sometimes attached outside the fuel tank. Today, most vehicles have electronic fuel injection systems, so fuel pumps are usually located inside the fuel tank. This is to prevent fires, as the pump is submerged in cool liquid and farther away from the hot engine.

Fixing vs. Replacing the Fuel Pump

It is generally recommended to replace rather than fix a bad fuel pump. While it may be possible to fix it temporarily, you will likely need to replace it eventually anyway. It is best to take your car to a service center that specializes in Toyota vehicles to have them diagnose the problem.

Fuel Pump Replacement Options

If you need to replace the fuel pump in your Toyota GR86, there are several options available. You can choose to go to a dealership's service department or an independent service center. Dealerships use top-quality manufacturer-recommended parts and have a high level of training, but their labor rates may be higher. Independent service centers may use non-official or aftermarket parts, which can make their pricing seem lower.

Cost of Fuel Pump Replacement

The average national cost for a fuel pump replacement across all vehicles is roughly between $611 and $894, including parts and labor. The cost for your Toyota GR86 may vary, so it is best to check with your local Toyota mechanic or dealership for a more specific estimate.

Recommendations for High-Performance Fuel Pumps

If you are looking for a high-performance fuel pump for your Toyota GR86, FTSpeed offers fuel dispensers designed to meet the needs of high-performance applications. Reputable manufacturers such as AEM, Walbro, and DeatschWerks are recommended for their reliable and efficient gasoline pumps.

Differences between 86 and 85 460 fuel pumps

The mechanical fuel pump in an '86 460 is different from the '85 460 in that it has a return line. The 86-87 460 trucks had the option of a mechanical fuel pump with a return or an electric "hot fuel" option. On the other hand, the 83-85 460 trucks had the option of a mechanical fuel pump without a return or the electric "hot fuel" option. The return line was likely added to help counter vapor lock.

The '86 F150 4.9L is a classic Ford F150 truck. The fuel pump can be replaced as a DIY project, but it is important to clean off the old gasket, scuff it with emery cloth or sandpaper, and clean it with alcohol or another degreaser before installing the new pump.

The Toyota GR86, 86, FR-S, and Subaru BRZ have two fuel pumps: a cam-driven HPFP (high-pressure fuel pump) for the DI (direct injection) system and a regular pump in the tank. The HPFP is known for making cricket noises, which can be reduced by adding a couple of ounces of smokeless 2-stroke oil with every tank of gas or using high-octane gasoline without ethanol.

Toyota 86 fuel pump replacement costs and process

The average cost for a Toyota 86 fuel pump replacement is $2452. This cost includes both parts and labor. The cost of a fuel pump replacement can be between $200-$600, but this price can increase depending on the additional parts that need to be replaced. For example, a fuel tank hose could cost $20-$40, whereas a fuel level sending unit could cost $1,100-$1,300.

It is possible to replace the fuel pump yourself, but it is recommended that you hire a professional mechanic as the process involves dealing with gasoline, which is highly flammable. Here is a step-by-step guide to how a professional mechanic would replace a fuel pump:

• Park your car on a level surface and set the parking brake.
• Locate the pump assembly in the fuel tank and turn the key to the "ON" position. The fuel pump should hum for 2-3 seconds. If it doesn't, the pump needs to be replaced.
• Find and verify the vehicle's fuel pump relay and fuse. If the fuse is damaged, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
• Check the fuel pump's operation. If it works, the issue is resolved. If it doesn't work and the fuse and fuel pump relay are functioning, check for power and ground at the fuel pump. If there is power and ground, the old pump is flawed and needs to be replaced.
• Relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable.
• Drain as much fuel as possible from the fuel tank. Disconnect the filler fuel hose and the electrical connection to the old pump.
• Support the fuel tank using a jack stand and a block of wood. Remove the entire pump assembly, including the pump and the fuel level sending unit, and lower the tank.
• Remove every hose clamp, disconnect the fuel line or fuel tank hose, and extract the original pump from the gas tank.
• Compare the new fuel pump to the old one to verify that you have the correct part. Once verified, install the new fuel pump by connecting every fuel line.
• Reinstall the straps and bolts. Reconnect the filler fuel and the electrical connector. Finally, reconnect the negative battery cable.
• Fill the gas tank and conduct a road test to verify that the new pump is working correctly.

Toyota 86s are also known to have a common issue with the fuel pump making "cricket noises". This issue does not seem to have a reliable fix, but some potential solutions include adding a couple of ounces of smokeless 2-stroke oil to each tank of gas or finding high-octane gasoline without ethanol.

Frequently asked questions