How to Remove the Fuel Pump in a 1998 Ford Escort
by Russell Wood
The fuel pump on a 1998 Ford Escort takes the fuel from the gas tank and pumps it to the fuel injection system under high amounts of pressure. When the pump goes out, the engine won't be able to start because there is no fuel being pushed through the system. Fortunately, getting to the fuel pump doesn't require removing the gas tank or even lifting up the car. The job does require some special tools, but it can be done at home.
Step 1
Pop the hood of your Escort. Attach the fuel pressure gauge to the Schrader valve, which is located on the end of the fuel rail. Press the pressure relief valve on the pressure gauge to release the fuel pressure in the system.
Step 2
Unbolt the bottom of the rear seat at the leading edge of the seat using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Lift the seat base up and out of the rear of the car. Unplug the harness to the fuel pump underneath the seat, then unbolt the cover to the pump using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Unbolt the ground strap for the pump with the ratchet as well.
Step 3
Disconnect the quick-connect fuel lines from the fuel pump by hand. Remove the locking ring on the top of the fuel pump using the brass drift and the hammer to knock the ring off of its mount.
Step 4
Lift the fuel pump out of the tank, making sure not to drip gasoline on the interior of the car.
Things You'll Need
- Fuel pressure gauge
- 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
- Brass drift
- Hammer
Warnings
- Never smoke or have an open flame nearby while you're working on the fuel system of a vehicle. If you do, you risk causing a fire, injuring yourself and damaging the vehicle.
Writer Bio
Russell Wood is a writer and photographer who attended Arizona State University. He has been building custom cars and trucks since 1994, including several cover vehicles. In 2000 Wood started a career as a writer, and since then he has dedicated his business to writing and photographing cars and trucks, as well as helping people learn more about how vehicles work.
