Replacing a fuel pump in an older car requires patience, the proper tools, and a smidge of knowledge concerning how a car works. In most cases, the normal life span of a fuel pump is around 100,000 to 150,000 miles, though this may vary based on make, model, and the conditions under which the vehicle is maintained. In the case of older vehicles, however, this component may start to malfunction much sooner, causing symptoms like the stalling of an engine, poor acceleration, or overall lack of power during drives.
To replace the fuel pump, first of all, ensure that the vehicle is safely supported. Most fuel pumps are situated inside the fuel tank; therefore, it is important to raise the car and support it well. After raising the car, the next step will involve disconnecting the battery of the vehicle to avoid any electrical problems or shock during the process. As noted by Automotive Maintenance & Repair, 2019, disconnecting the battery will minimize the chances of sparks while manipulating fuel system parts.
With the car secure and the battery disconnected, the next step is to drain the fuel tank. This implies that it has to be removed, given that dealing with gasoline can be risky. Normally, a 5-gallon container will be available to store the drained fuel safely for proper disposal or reutilization. For an older car, such as a 1995 Chevy Impala, which may weigh over 3,500 pounds, removing the tank can be a labor-intensive task. You’ll likely need a second person to help lower the tank safely after disconnecting the fuel lines and electrical connections.
Next, remove the fuel pump assembly from the tank. The system of the mechanical fuel pump is mostly seen in older cars, whereas most of the newer ones incorporate electric fuel pumps inside the tank. The fuel pump assembly is usually held in place by a locking ring or bolts that can be removed by a ratchet wrench. Remove the assembly and take a look at the fuel pump and components around it for wear and tear. If you find the fuel pump corroded or damaged, its replacement is a must without further delay.
Before the new fuel pump is installed, the fuel filter should be checked for blockages. The clogged filter may be the reason for poor fuel delivery and could affect the performance of the new fuel pump. According to a report from Car and Driver, around 40% of fuel delivery issues in older cars are related to dirty fuel filters that restrict fuel flow to the pump.
Once the new fuel pump is in place, carefully install the pump assembly into the fuel tank, ensuring that all connectors are tight and the fuel lines are securely reattached. On a 1995 Impala, the fuel pressure regulator should be checked at this time as well because poor regulators can cause low fuel pressure conditions and improper fuel delivery. A typical fuel pressure reading for this model is in the region of 40 PSI, so testing after fitting is important to verify the new pump is operating as intended.
After the fuel tank has been installed, reconnect the battery and check for leaks around the fuel lines. It is a good idea to start the car and observe the fuel pressure gauge at idle and under acceleration. If the fuel pressure is within spec and the car runs well, the job is complete.
Replacing the fuel pump in an older car can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, depending on how complicated the vehicle is and how skilled the mechanic is. Although the price of a fuel pump replacement would depend on the model of the car, a normal electric fuel pump for older cars costs about $150 to $300. Labor can cost anywhere from $200 to $400, depending on the hourly rate of the repair shop.
If you are replacing the fuel pump yourself, make sure you use high-quality replacement parts. A low-quality or poorly installed fuel pump may further contribute to engine performance issues. For reliable and long-lasting fuel pumps, consider trusted suppliers like Fuel Pump to ensure your new pump will provide optimal performance.