Is it safe to change a car's Fuel Pump?

Question

A few days ago, my 1996 Jeep Cherokee 4wd v6 suddenly just stopped moving while I was driving. Everything electrical was still running (stereo was still playing and the lights were on) but when I pressed the accelerator, the car stopped moving. I shut the car off and but I couldn't get it to start. Again, the whole electrical system works, I checked the battery, fuses, etc. The car had a tune up and the engine was recently checked. When opening the throttle to let air in while trying to start the car, I didn't smell any gas in the air so many here have suspected that it is the fuel pump that died. I already made sure I had gas in the system, but would it be safe for me to change that part myself? I've changed a bunch of engine, electrical, and exhaust parts myself on it, but because this has to do with gas i'm not sure what's most advisable? Also, does anyone else have a suggestion as to what else may be wrong with it and to check?

Answer 1

I know you said you checked the fuel going to the engine and all the fuses. I would check the shrader valve on the fuel rail under the hood. Valve looks like a tire stem with a cap just stick a pen inside to see if you have fuel pressure. Don't get alarmed if the fuel squirts out (just don't have a cig in your mouth). Turn the ignition to the on position, but don't try to start the engine. With the radio and all accessories off listen real close to see if you hear a hum from the fuel pump priming up. Switch the key on and off several times.

If you do hear a hum go check the shrader valve to see if there is fuel there. If so then your problem is somewhere else.

If you don't hear the hum of the fuel pump then replacing it not real difficult. You will have to drop your gas tank ( hope you don't have much fuel in it). If you do it right you can just loosen the straps on the tank and remove the hose from the gas cap tube and lean the tank down to exchange the pump. The whole fuel pump assembly will come out, (float, strainer, etc). Replace the pump and strainer. On a scale of 1-10 I would label the job a 7 in difficulty.

If you buy a Haynes manual it should guide you through the whole process. But be for sure it's the fuel pump and not the pressure regulator, or fuel shut off switch, thing of that natural before you replace it.

Answer 2

An internal combustion engine requires three components in order to function.
Fuel
Compression
Ignition

Either of the three "could" be the problem. Lights, camera, action is no indication that you have spark.

Do you have a repair manual? if not, get one and go through the troubleshooting procedures.

Whenever working on the fuel system, always disconnect the battery first. Make sure there are no other sources of ignition in the area and be well ventilated, you'll be fine.

Cars only blow up in movies.

Answer 3

Are you a trained mechanic?
No, then there's your answer.

However, if you want to learn, have someone who knows what (s)he's doing watching over your shoulder.

As someone else posted...make sure you're well ventillated - even after you drain the fuel from the tank and lines.

Oh, don't do like one Darwin Award winner and use car batteries in place of jacks. ;)

Answer 4

When doing work on the fuel system I always set up a large fan to blow the fumes away. Just be real careful.

Answer 5

i would change the gas filter first and if youe sure its the pump, then go ahead and change it. you can do it, as long as you know how and take your time, i did it many times, but change that gas filter first, it might be clogged up.