Recently my fuel pump is making this tired sound compared to usual and on the highway decided to stop working, and now doesn't even prime enough to start....how would i go about changing the pump?...thanx alot....

 

Unfortunately it is located inside the fuel tank. So you're going to have to drop the tank and change it. I can't give you exact details because I haven't done it myself. It's not very much fun though.

 

There is a much easier way to change your pump. The big hump in the back hatch covers the gas tank. Get a whole saw and drill a hole right in the center. Your pump should be located here, if not you should be able to look around form here and find it. You will probably have to cut the fuel lines to get the pump out, then splice them back together when your finished. Its alot easier to do it this way. You dont have to take apart your rear end and lower the fuel tank.

 

instead you'll have a hole in the floor

 

Yeah, I think I would rather spend the extra time than have a hole in my car. But thats just me. Then again you could always patch it up with a door or something for if you ever have to do it again like I'll be doing for the FIFTH time!

 

This is one of those jobs where I paid someone to do it. He didn't have to lower the axle, but I think he cut the exhaust hte first time, the second time I think he said he was able to wiggle the tank just enough to get it done without cutting anything. Of course he has a lift which I don't, which is why I paid him to do it.

They do make sheetmetal doors for ducts (at least they did for the US Navy) so you could theoretically put a door in easily. Just remember the whole floor pan is part of the strength for the unibody. You don't want to weaken it......

 

That is exactly why I would never cut into the floor. Also the chances of cutting fuel lines or precious wiring is pretty good. Dumb idea if you ask me. You don't need a lift to do the job, although it does make it easier. A jack and a couple of jack stands are all you need.

 

This really is one of the PITA jobs. I've had the "pleasure" of doing it 3 times. Once in a 91 Firebird I had, and twice in the IROC. Just finished the 2nd time today.

You'll need to get the car up as high as possible in the rear, drop the rear axle by undoing the shocks, panhard bar, bar above the panhard bar, etc. I took my driveshaft off too. Then take the catback down. Then the heat shields. Now you can get to the straps holding the gas tank in. It's MUCH easier if the tank is empty. Undo the straps and then you're going to have to rotate the tank around to get the filler neck out. This can be tough, be careful so as not to break off the filler neck. Once the tank is down, carefully open the cam lock to get the fuel lines/pump, etc. out. Change your pump and then put it back together again.

Throughout the process, take note of what you have to take off in what order.

Oh yeah, on mine, 1 of the 3 bolts holding the bar above the panhard bar in on the driver's side was too rusted on to get off. So I got 2 of the 3 off and just swung the bar out of my way. These bolts were the BIGGEST PITA while doing this for me. If you can't get all 3 off, get 2 off and just swing the bar out of your way.

 

I was wondering how heavy the gas tank is (empty). I'll be tackling this job this weekend.

 

Very light empty. I actually took it out w/ about 7/8 full this last time, then about 1/4 full when I put it back in.