Reinstalling a fuel delivery system takes expert level knowledge of cars and specialized tools given the high complexity. In most cases they are located in a vehicle's fuel tank, meaning the fuel tank has to be removed and this requires lifting equipment to handle both the weight of the gas tank itself and making sure that the car stays put. With a tank full of gas, it can easily weigh more than 100 pounds and creates opportunities for mishap or accidents along the way. This install can be difficult and time consuming for the no-pro with pro-style tools, taking as many as 3–4 hours even for veteran DIYernuts.
Accurate installation is required to keep the right fuel pressure — 30 to 80 psi, typically. Any mis-installation can cause a drop in fuel pressure which, while could be as simple as stalling or sputtering, will behave like a engine missfire and you would drive back home wih one less car because you did not take the time to simply yank the pump out of the tank. When installed, the gaskets can be improperly seated or not have proper fitting, leading to a fuel leak which is extremely dangerous. The safety protocols also suggest unhooking the battery, so as to avoid any potential sparks, because fuel vapors are still highly flammable with that work ongoing.
However, mechanic Josh Hill at AutoTech warns against do-it-yourself if you don't have experience. You don't just throw a new fuel pump in there, they need fine tuning and you gotta know how to handle the stuff safely," he says. The importance of professional installation for non fuel system savvy people is something he reiterates, with an improper setup bringing consequences such as engine damage or potentially costly repairs.
With so many telling you to do this as long as you have "experience of a fuel system" because any "mistake in handling could void warranties costing hundreds or even thousands on a new pump". Installation is done at certified shops and typically runs between $300 and $500; thus, professional installation might be a good idea for most drivers. Fuel Pump – Fuel injectors are also damaged when the fuel pump is improperly installed, which can generate more costs.
The guide at Fuel Pump is aimed at people looking to evaluate their options and come to a more full understanding of the tools required in creating a complete fuel delivery system, while also lining up their options for choosing the right pump based on whether they may wish to tackle this installation themselves or prefer professional installation.