When it comes to replacing a Fuel Pump there are several specialized tools which can be used so that this job is done in special manner. The Fuel Pump is fastened to the fuel tank or to the fuel lines with bolts which usually come in different sizes and that is why one of our primary tools will be a socket set. An average socket set will come with sizes ranging from 8mm to 19mm, which would be enough for loosening or tightening the nuts & bolts. This task requires a 10mm or 13mm socket, depending on the vehicle.
You will also need a fuel line disconnect tool that corresponds with your particular vehicle to safely separate the fuel lines from the pump. Quick-connect fittings are often used in modern vehicles, and can be a bit difficult to get apart without the right tool. A fuel line disconnect tool set ranges from $15 to $30, which is a small price to help safeguard against damaging the fuel lines if/when replacing these hoses.
If it is an in-tank design (most of them are), you will need a jack and jack stands to get the vehicle off the ground, as the Fuel Pump usually drives under the car. This provides you access to the tank by safely getting your car up to a working height. In general, jacks can lift 2 to 3 tons and sets of jack stands cost about $40-$70 for a good set. Having these is really important to stop the car moving around while you are underneath working on it.
A way to lower the tank safely if you need to drop it off of your vehicle to get to the Fuel Pump is a fuel tank strap wrench or a ratchet strap. If empty the fuel tank weighs anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds, depending on how big it is. Using the right tools is going to lessen the chances of getting injured or doing any damage to the actual tank.
One thing you'll need is a fuel pressure gauge to test the system before and after replacing the pump. It checks the pressure in the fuel lines, and also is used to verify that new pump is operating as it should. The average fuel pressure gauge for cars is in psi, with readings ranging from 30 to 80 psi depending on the car.
Mechanic gloves and goggles as safety protection. The collapsing fuel system creates a spray of pressurized residual fuel upon disconnection. The use of personal protective equipment significantly reduces the risk of gasoline to be absorbed by the skin, wearing gloves and goggles is essential because gasoline can cause allergic reactions or damage.
In 2020, a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that bad or failing Fuel Pumps were the culprit in as many as 12% of all vehicle breakdowns related to the fuel system. The paper also highlighted the significance of proper tools to avoid any accidents while mending or replacing.
The famous car enthusiast and mechanic Eric the Car Guy famously said, “Having the proper tool for any job is not only safe but it also allows for that job to be done correctly.” This makes the replacement process an easy one besides eliminating the possibilities of other problems.
Anyone needing to swap out the Fuel Pump is going to have a safely and efficiently remove and replace it with a new unit, including some certain tools like a socket set, fuel line disconect tool jackstands and bullet fael pressure guage.