Fuel pump location '97GT and Fuel Pressure

[wlkjr]

Where is access to the fuel pump on a '97GT? I know some have access from the trunk area but I can't see it on mine. I suppose it is necessary to drop the tank to gain access.

[BNaylor]

It should be in the trunk area behind the rear passenger seat. Did you move the carpeting out of the way? Then look for an access cover with 7 nuts securing it.

[wlkjr]

I didn't get back that far but will check it this afternoon. Car will only fire off momentarily and pump is making a funny noise. After 320,000 miles, I guess it's about time it quit on me. I suppose the first thing to check would be the fuel pressure and if it's low then the pump would be suspect.
If it tests within specs, what would be the next thing to check?

[BNaylor]

Fuel pressure check would be a good idea. How old is the fuel filter? Wow, 320K miles now.

[wlkjr]

Originally Posted by bnaylor

Fuel pressure check would be a good idea. How old is the fuel filter? Wow, 320K miles now.

Just changed the fuel filter around 308K back in the summer when I did the intake manifold job.
Yesterday morning it just wouldn't crank. Almost fires off and I can hear the fuel pump making a noise. Seems to be some pressure when I push on the schrader valve as some gas comes out.

[BNaylor]

The only way to really tell is hookup an automotive fuel pressure tester. Also, check the fuel pressure regulator and make sure diaphragm is not ruptured. You may see fuel in the vaccum line attached to it. But a fuel pressure test will test the FRP too. Good luck.

[wlkjr]

Bought an Actron fuel pressure tester and connected to the schrader valve on what I assume is the regulator. I cut off the AC. I turn on the ingition and hear the pump making a noise. During the cranking cycle, I only get about maybe 5 lbs of pressure. It barely moves the hand, but a little.
So I assume the fuel pump or regulator is bad. Any way to tell which one? My guess would be the pump since the car has 320,000 miles on it.
'97 GPGT

[jonsonton]

It would be the pump. Did you check it with key on and engine off-What do you get then?

[wlkjr]

Originally Posted by jonsonton

It would be the pump. Did you check it with key on and engine off-What do you get then?

It's the same with key on as it is when trying to crank, almost none. There is some pressure as there is some gas coming out the tube when I press the relief button, but it is not much.
I noticed a time or two in the last couple of weeks that it was just a little slow to start up.

[obd2scannerman]

Most likely it is the pump. Sometimes you can smack the tank while cranking and they will temporarily come back to life. Also the fuel pressure regulator is the part with the small vacuum hose going to it. Make sure it is not leaking gas into the hose. The schrader valve is actually part of the fuel rail assembly. Make sure you also look at the wiring to the pump. Good Luck!

[BNaylor]

wlkjr,

Your two threads have been merged. In the future please try to keep the same or a similar issue in a single post to avoid confusion and redundant answers.

[wlkjr]

Are quick disconnect tools required to remove the hoses from the pump? Any hints about how to get the pump loose and out of the hole?

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by wlkjr

Are quick disconnect tools required to remove the hoses from the pump? Any hints about how to get the pump loose and out of the hole?

Nope! All you need is a thin bladed flat blade screwdriver to remove the big c-clip retaining ring. The quick disconnects have two prongs that you press in on just like the connectors at the fuel filter. Remove the two outer lines first - fuel pressure and return. Then do the center connection which is for evaporative emissions. Undo both electrical connectors. After c-clip is removed, then grab hold of top of fuel pump and pull up. It will pop up an inch or two because it is spring loaded. Carefully remove the fuel pump assembly up and out, sort of snaking it. Don't tilt it after removal because fuel will be in there. Use plenty of rags around the area and I recommend vacuuming the top of the fuel pump area before removal to get the dirt out and none drops in the gas tank opening. Once pump is removed make sure the big o-ring seal is good. I use Vaseline on the seal during re-install. The seal is very important so no evaporative emissions faults occur later. Also, make sure battery negative cable is disconnected before starting any work back there. Good luck!


Arrow points to the C-Clip Retainer

[wlkjr]

Thanks Bob. I've already opened up the cover and removed the electrical connector, I only have one. It was quite dusty and dirty so I blew out all the dirt with an air hose. Waiting for my new pump to arrive. Sounds like maybe a 30 minute job.

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by wlkjr

Thanks Bob. I've already opened up the cover and removed the electrical connector, I only have one. It was quite dusty and dirty so I blew out all the dirt with an air hose. Waiting for my new pump to arrive. Sounds like maybe a 30 minute job.

You're welcome Wally. You must have the early model 97 which does not have the fuel tank pressure sensor integral to the pump unit so there is only one connector which is for the fuel pump and level sending unit (all in one connector). The evaporative emissions systems differ. '97.5 models and up have two. Yeah that is amazing how dirty it gets back there.

BTW - When you install the pump make sure it is centered just right over the hole and press down to load the springs before installing the c-clip. If the c-clip is hard to install it will be because the unit is not centered just right. Silicone lube or Vaseline on the o-ring seal helps too. Good luck and sounds like it is in good hands.