Can 1 man replace a fuel pump and sending unit, clean out sludge and particles from fuel tank in about 1 hour? Think I was scammed
Mobile mechanic worked on my 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (had been stored for a couple years and tank was virtually empty). He claims he dropped tank, cleaned all gunk and particles from tank, replaced fuel pump and sending unit, all in about 1 hour. He filled up the tank…supposedly, so I can't tell if it's working right or not ( On empty it was reading 3/4 of a tank). I prepaid for the pump and work and I don't believe he did anything. I know he didn't drop the gas tank because there are still plenty of spider webs connecting car bumper to the gas tank.i think I was ripped off a
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
To drop the fuel tank on your model, and immediately re-install the tank (without any cleaning or service) would require about 2 to 3 hours in total for an experienced professional if a lift is available. The fuel pump itself can be installed without removing the tank but to do that you must have access to the inside of the car because the pump is removed through an access panel under the rear seat. Also, you can’t drop the tank without access to the inside of the car because to drop the tank the wiring harness has to be disconnected and that connection is only accessible from inside the car. So, if the car was locked, obviously no work was performed on the vehicle. YourMechanic does offer these services and you can start by requesting fuel pump replacement. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
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If you want to check the fuse, the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer fuel pump relay is located under the dash on the driver`s side of the vehicle. If you look under the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel, you should see a piece of plastic you can remove. Inside, you`ll see two fuel pump relays.
Procedure for replacing your fuel pump
First, you`ll need to lift the vehicle so you can remove the tank. If there`s gas in the tank, you`ll have to drain it into an approved container first. It`s important to clean the tank thoroughly during the repair.
Tank sludge is caused by rust, dirt and oxidation of hydrocarbons in oil. It is more likely to form when water is in the fuel – and water can cause microorganisms to grow which can badly contaminate fuel. These microbes sink to the bottom of the tank and build up with dirt or rust and form sludge.
While you`re replacing a faulty pump, you should go ahead and switch out your fuel filters and clean your fuel injectors. A faulty pump is often the result of a dirty, clogged fuel system, so changing out other important components will improve the lifespan of your new pump.
To switch from an in-tank pump to an in-line pump, remove the electric fuel pump from its housing and replace it with a simple draw straw that reaches far enough into the fuel tank without creating any obstruction or restriction.
Fuel pump failures can be caused by electrical faults, old age (wear) or fuel contaminants (dirt, moisture or bad gas). Fuel pump failures often occur without warning. Fuel pumps, injectors and pressure regulators are the three most commonly replaced fuel system components.
Contamination can either be caused by something foreign coming into the tank that shouldn`t be there, such as microbes (also known as diesel bug); or by the fuel itself degrading.
Emulsified water – Under pressure changes, agitation and heavy cavitation, often experienced as the fuel passes through pumps and filters, the water content can become completely emulsified turning it from cloudy to milky diesel fuel.
A poor connection can cause enough resistance to lower the amount of voltage reaching the pump. This causes the pump to turn more slowly than it should, and can shorten the life of the pump. Replacing the vehicle side connector should solve the issues with poor connections, but sometimes causes another problem.
The fuel pump shut-off switch has a red reset button on top of it.
Bad Fuel Pump, Fuel Pressure Sensor Can Trigger `Check Engine` Light, P0087 Code.
The fuel pump shut-off switch has a red reset button on top of it.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Can 1 man replace a fuel pump and sending unit, clean out sludge and particles from fuel tank in about 1 hour? Think I was scammed
ANSWER : To drop the fuel tank on your model, and immediately re-install the tank (without any cleaning or service) would require about 2 to 3 hours in total for an experienced professional if a lift is available. The fuel pump itself can be installed without removing the tank but to do that you must have access to the inside of the car because the pump is removed through an access panel under the rear seat. Also, you can’t drop the tank without access to the inside of the car because to drop the tank the wiring harness has to be disconnected and that connection is only accessible from inside the car. So, if the car was locked, obviously no work was performed on the vehicle. YourMechanic does offer these services and you can start by requesting fuel pump replacement. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.
I have a 1981 e-350 with dual fuel tanks the p.o. added a third tank and 3 electric fuel pumps along with sepparate gauges and swi
ANSWER : The switch you are referring to is vended with the required electrical and fuel schematic (I just looked in the box) that answers your installation question. If you want an advance view, here is a link as well. Yes, you need a return line and just refer to the aforementioned link. If you are retrofitting back to OEM, I strongly encourage you to buy the original Factory Service Manual (FSM). There are lots of details attending this system and obviously it is difficult to recount it all here. The FSM will make your life much easier and you can then make sure your installation is perfect. Alternatively, YourMechanic can dispatch a certified mechanic and perform the whole retrofit and check out if you desire. Just request and schedule a generic service such as fuel pump service and the mechanic will come to your location and estimate the parts and labor required. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.
Just replaced my fuel pump but its not getting any power tested fuel pump relay and fuel fuse both good tested the wires all good.
ANSWER : You need to look at the theft light on dash to make sure it comes on and goes off when you turn the key to the on position. If light comes on and stays on then your theft system is causing the fuel pump to not be engaged. I recommend you check the theft system and then scan the computer for theft system codes. You may need to reprogram the keys to work or you have an bad sensor for the ignition key in the steering column.
1996 F150 4.9 5 speed. Frt. Fuel pump quit working. Put fuel in rear tank and it sucked the fuel to the frt tank.
ANSWER : The two tanks are designed to work together and so BOTH pumps must be functioning and, as well, the related fuel system supply code, the Code P0232 that has set has to be resolved. P0232 means that the fuel pump relay is stuck on, keeping power supplied to the fuel pump even after the ignition has been turned off although another possibility is the fuel pump secondary power circuit has a short to battery voltage. The factory service manual (FSM) specifies a very lengthy diagnostic (because you have separate tanks). If you do not have the FSM, your best bet is to request a fuel pump diagnostic – dual tanks and let a certified mechanic get to the bottom of this. With regard to the other code, P0704, that code will set if the clutch switch is defective, there is worn clutch pedal lever or clutch lever bushing, shorted or open wiring and/or connectors in the clutch switch circuit, a blown fuse or burnt fusible link and/or, rarely, a faulty PCM or programming error. If you request the pump diagnostic the responding certified mechanic will get this taken care of for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.
Hi. i have a 2000 kia sportage 4WD and it looks like the fuel pump needs to be replaced. Is it necessary to drop the fuel tank in order to replace the fuel pump?
ANSWER : Hi there. The fuel pump could be changed by using a special tool behind the seats in your vehicle. You will have to remove the carpet behind the rear seats and you will have access to the fuel pump. I suggest getting a plastic garbage bag and place it all around the fuel pump area to prevent any fuel from getting in the vehicle. If you are unable to gain access to the fuel pump from inside the vehicle cab, then you will have to drop the fuel tank. If you need further assistance with replacing the fuel pump, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Fuel pressure
ANSWER : Hello,
You may want to try checking the fuel pump relay. The relay wires should have ground on two wires, power on one wire and switched power on another wire. To activate the fuel pump your ECU actually connects one of the ground wires to complete the circuit and send power to the fuel pump. If the wires all have power running through them, then it is likely you have a faulty relay. The wire coming from the fuel pump is the other ground wire. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose your wiring as this can be very difficult and time consuming without the proper wiring diagram.
You may want to try checking the fuel pump relay. The relay wires should have ground on two wires, power on one wire and switched power on another wire. To activate the fuel pump your ECU actually connects one of the ground wires to complete the circuit and send power to the fuel pump. If the wires all have power running through them, then it is likely you have a faulty relay. The wire coming from the fuel pump is the other ground wire. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose your wiring as this can be very difficult and time consuming without the proper wiring diagram.
Replaced fuel pump. Car won’t start. 2002 Infinity I35
ANSWER : Hi there – the metal component you describe is a fuel check valve on the fuel return line. Its function is to maintain a small amount of pressure in the fuel system so that starting does not require the fuel pump to run very long before the engine will start. Having replaced the fuel pump and fuel filter, I would check fuel pressure while the car is running. This is to check the fuel pump relay for burned contacts that won’t support full electrical current to the pump, and for proper fuel pressure – a malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator could also restrict power and higher speeds if pressure is too low. I would recommend an inspection of the fuel system by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.
Fuel pump not pumping gas. 1996 Chevrolet Blazer
ANSWER : Hey there, thanks for writing in about your 1996 Chevrolet Blazer. If you hear the pump, but still get no fuel out of the pump, then you have the power and ground backwards in the wiring or they have it backwards on the pump. If you need help having this checked, a certified professional from YourMechanic can inspect the starting issue and let you know what repairs are necessary.
