Fuel Pump needs replaced... July 23, 2014, 02:36:59 AM So a couple weeks ago bought an '85 Thunderbird, cheap, in great condition, and low miles. About a week ago my car starts having problems starting and a couple days ago, in the morning i was having problems keeping it running and when i would hit the gas it would be really bogged down. Finally driving to get it back home when it completely stops and wont keep running. Would start fine but couldnt keep going. I replaced the TFI module and the fuel filter along with the cap and rotor although that last one was a major long shot but i already had the part to change it. Finally have it narrowed down to the fuel pump as it only comes through here and there. Question here being what do i need for a fuel pump replacement? Any brands to avoid? And any tips to make it go as smoothly as possible since it only has the one fuel pump in the tank? Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #1 – July 23, 2014, 12:45:55 PM Welcome to the forum! One of the mods will probably move this to Engine Tech but I will try to answer it. First, you should check for codes. The early cars didnt have a functional check engine light so you will need to either use a code reader or a test light/paper clip. Have you checked your fuel pressure?If you plan on upgrades later on, might as well get a good Walbro pump now. Even if you don't plan on upgrades, Walbro is the pump most people get. I've never used them but http://www.autoperformanceengineering.com has Thunderbird specific kits at good prices. They get recommended quite a bit on other forums.Changing the pump is cake if you don't have a full tank. Make sure you relieve the fuel system's pressure. With the car on jack stands, support the tank with a jack and a piece of plywood. You can then loosen the tank straps and fuel filler neck. It helps a lot to have two people to help balance the tank as you lower it. A brass drift or punch is recommended to remove the fuel pump assembly lock ring to avoid sparks. Make sure you change the short piece of rubber hose between the pump and pick up assembly as they tend to split with age. Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #2 – July 23, 2014, 02:21:53 PM Like said above. Depending on your mods for the future, Walbro 180 or 225 is your best bet. Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #3 – July 23, 2014, 02:27:23 PM I've had my tank down a couple times. Like others said, if the tank is near empty and the bolts aren't too rusty, it's not that bad of a job.You might make sure that's your problem first though. Do you hear the pump prime when you turn the ignition key? If so, do you have fuel pressure? If either of these answers are "no" (and you've already changed the fuel filter) then it's time to drop the tank. Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #4 – July 23, 2014, 09:31:37 PM Here's my thread where I replaced the entire tank...http://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?37393-Fuel-Tank-amp-Fuel-Line-ReplacementAmazon part numbers in the thread if you're so inclined.Geoff Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #5 – July 23, 2014, 10:07:19 PM That link above for the pump, is the cheapest Ive seen. Ive got a Walbro 190 on my car. Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #6 – July 24, 2014, 01:45:10 AM Thanks guys! Codes said EGR system circuit failure so i plan on cleaning that up a bit this week. Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #7 – July 24, 2014, 06:33:20 AM Change the pump either way. Knowing you have a fresh pump is a PLUS. Also make sure you use SUBMERSIBLE FUEL LINE inside the tank. If you dont it will let you down . NAPA sells it by the FOOT. 30 Bucks for a foot and that will allow you to do 2 pumps. Normally i never use WORM CLAMPS use spring clamps as they self adjust as they sink in to the fuel line and i use 2 on each connection if possible. Have a great day We use Walbro pumps exclusively in my shop Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #8 – July 25, 2014, 01:53:32 PM Sorry this is about the second part of the car I honestly know nothing about, the other being a transmission. Will this pump work? it says it wont but it looks similar to what ive seen for others and i cant seem to find one with a sending unit or it will be an inline one...which i dont have. Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #9 – July 25, 2014, 08:31:22 PM You do not want an INLINE PUMP. replace the stock one with a walbro in tank unit. have a great day guys. Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #10 – August 02, 2014, 04:03:01 PM Okay hit a snag in this simple replacement. The pigtail connector has melted through. Can't seem to find one at Advanced or AutoZone. Anyone know where I can find one of these guys? Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #11 – August 02, 2014, 07:00:17 PM http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mustang-Repair-Plug-With-Pigtail-Fuel-Tank-Sending-Unit-1983-1997-CJ-Pony-Pa-/121400012458?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item1c44012eaa&vxp=mtr Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #12 – August 03, 2014, 08:57:20 AM The photo above is exactly why i do not use connectors on many devices. I posted several times to the need of good connections crimped and soldered. I do not use that connector for that exact reason it melts. Your issue most likely was not a bad pump but a bad connection. later model cars use better connections now but i never trust them. I always solder every connection when installing devices that are continuous run devices that draw high currents. If you look on this site you will see many fuel pump MODIFICATIONS i have posted . So with that if that was my car i would get out the soldering iron and go to work making those connections reliable. The photo Vinnie posted is a dead giveaway for the need to replace these connectors. If they never fail why would a company supply new replacement ones. Once i find a plug or device with a melted plug i modify the design. reason being i have to assume they all will fail sooner or later. Solder wires to those pins and connect them to the car with solder and shrink wrap and eliminate that connector that is known to fail. have a great day TOM Quote Selected
Fuel Pump needs replaced... Reply #13 – August 17, 2014, 09:36:57 PM Thanks got the pump in after the connector showed up. I really appreciate the help. You guys rock! Quote Selected
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