Upgrading The R32 Gtr: Replacing Vital Fuel Lines

The Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 is a powerful car, but with great power comes great maintenance. As these cars are now at least 25 years old, parts are wearing out and need to be replaced. One of the most important systems in any car is the fuel system, and the fuel lines are a key component of that. In this article, we will discuss the different fuel lines in the R32 GTR, how to identify if they need replacing, and the best practices for doing so. We will also cover the tools and parts required for the job, as well as safety precautions to take when working with flammable liquids.

Fuel pump fuse and pump connector

When working on fuel systems, it is important to remember that fuel vapours are flammable. Therefore, always work in a well-ventilated area and keep smoking to a minimum. Some people pull the fuel pump fuse or disconnect the pump connector to clear the lines of fuel.

The fuel pump fuse and pump connector are important components of the fuel system in a Nissan Skyline GT-R R32. The fuel pump fuse is located in the fuse box on the driver's side knee panel. It is important to check the fuses first when troubleshooting fuel pump issues.

The fuel pump relay is located in the boot, on the right-hand side of the boot latch under a cover, and it is green. The fuel pump relay can be bypassed by earthing it out. Additionally, there is a fuel pump modulator located behind a side panel in the boot, which controls the voltage to the pump to reduce noise at idle.

If you are experiencing issues with your fuel pump not priming, it could be due to a faulty fuel pump control module (FPCM). The FPCM is located on top of the rear strut tower and can fail, causing the fuel pump to not function properly.

To replace the fuel pump on a Nissan Skyline GT-R R32, you will need the following tools and parts: a 10mm socket for the fuel pump cover, a gas tank fuel pump removal tool, and a new fuel pump (such as the NISMO fuel pump). The step-by-step process is as follows:

• Remove the access plate to expose the top of the fuel tank.
• Remove the fuel outlet hose.
• Use a special tool to remove the fuel tank top, or alternatively, use a large screwdriver and a hammer.
• Identify the centre hard line as the outlet and the top hard line as the return.
• Remove the old fuel pump and install the new fuel pump, ensuring that the cradle/sump is in place.
• Reinstall the fuel tank top, making sure the fuel sender float does not get tangled in the tank lines and that the o-ring is not pinched.

It is important to note that the stock R32 fuel pump is rated at 195 L/hr, while the Nismo replacement is rated at 276 L/hr. The single Nismo pump is sufficient for up to 500 wheel horsepower and 75 psi. If you require more horsepower, you may need to consider a more complex fuel system.

Fuel tank top removal

To remove the fuel tank top on a Nissan Skyline GT-R R32, follow these steps:

First, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area as fuel vapours are flammable. Remove the access plate to expose the top of the fuel tank. Disconnect the fuel pump fuse or the pump connector to clear the fuel lines. Remove the fuel outlet hose.

At this point, you can use a special tool to remove the fuel tank top, or you can use a large screwdriver and a hammer as an alternative. Once the fuel tank top is removed, you will see the centre hard line outlet and the top hard line return. The return and outlet are marked for your reference.

When reinstalling the fuel tank top, ensure that the O-ring is not pinched and that the fuel sender float is not tangled in the tank lines.

Fuel outlet hose removal

To remove the fuel outlet hose on a Nissan Skyline GT-R R32, you will need a 10mm fuel pump cover, a gas tank fuel pump removal tool, and a new fuel pump.

First, ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area as fuel vapours are flammable. Remove the access plate to expose the top of the gas tank. Next, remove the fuel outlet hose. If you have one, use a special tool to remove the fuel tank top. If you don't have this tool, you can use a large screwdriver and a hammer. Once the fuel tank top is removed, you will see the center hard line outlet and the top hard line return. These are marked.

Now, you are ready to install the new fuel pump. Place the new pump in the cradle/sump, ensuring that the OEM pump has been removed. Reinstall the top of the tank, being careful not to pinch the o-ring.

Fuel pump replacement

The fuel pump in the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 is responsible for supplying fuel to the engine, and it is crucial to ensure that the fuel system is adequate to supply enough fuel to the engine.

Step 1: Safety Precautions

Fuel vapors are flammable, so always perform this replacement in a well-ventilated area and keep smoking to a minimum. Some people choose to pull the fuel pump fuse or disconnect the pump connector to clear the lines of fuel before beginning the replacement process.

Step 2: Gather Tools and Materials

You will need a 10mm socket for the fuel pump cover, a gas tank fuel pump removal tool, and a new fuel pump. It is recommended to use a NISMO fuel pump as they are reliable and have low failure rates. The part number for the NISMO fuel pump is BNR32 17042-RR581.

Step 3: Access the Fuel Pump

Remove the access plate to expose the top of the fuel tank. Remove the fuel outlet hose. You can use a special tool to remove the fuel tank top, or alternatively, use a large screwdriver and a hammer.

Step 4: Identify the Fuel Lines

The center hard line is the outlet, and the top hard line is the return. Make sure to mark the lines to avoid confusion during reassembly.

Step 5: Remove the Old Fuel Pump

Remove the old fuel pump from the cradle/sump. Take note of its orientation and positioning for installing the new fuel pump.

Step 6: Install the New Fuel Pump

Place the new fuel pump in the cradle/sump, ensuring it is securely seated.

Step 7: Reassemble the Fuel Tank

Reinstall the fuel tank top, being careful not to pinch the O-ring. Ensure the fuel sender float does not get tangled in the tank lines.

Step 8: Final Checks

Check that all connections are secure and that the O-ring is not pinched. Your new fuel pump is now installed and should be good for another 25 years!

Optional Upgrade: Wiring Specialties R32 GTR Plug and Play Fuel Pump Relay Kit

If you're looking to enhance your fuel pump's performance and reliability, consider the Wiring Specialties R32 GTR Plug and Play Fuel Pump Relay Kit. This kit features a 30-amp circuit and allows for easy installation and control of a modern, high-draw fuel pump. It includes heavy-duty 12 AWG TXL automotive high-draw fuel pump wiring and provides flexible battery+ power pick-up options.

Fuel tank top reinstallation

To reinstall the fuel tank top on a Nissan Skyline GT-R R32, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure that the fuel sender float is not tangled in the tank lines and that the O-ring is not pinched. The O-ring is an important component as it helps to seal the connection between the fuel tank top and the tank itself, preventing leaks. Check part number 17342-79900 for the correct O-ring.

Next, carefully lower the fuel tank top into position, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the tank and that the O-ring is not twisted or damaged. Use a torque wrench to tighten the fuel tank top bolts to the specified torque value, as over-tightening can damage the O-ring or the tank itself.

Once the fuel tank top is securely in place, reconnect the fuel outlet hose and any other disconnected hoses or lines. Ensure that all hoses are securely clamped and that there are no leaks present.

Finally, refill the fuel tank and check for any signs of leakage around the fuel tank top and O-ring. If any leaks are detected, retighten the bolts and check the O-ring for damage. If leaks persist, further investigation may be required to identify the source of the issue.

It is important to work in a well-ventilated area when performing this procedure, as fuel vapors can be flammable. Always exercise caution and refer to the vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions specific to your vehicle.

Frequently asked questions