How to Remove the Fuel Pressure Regulator in a 1996 Chevy 1500
by Don BowmanThe fuel pressure regulator on the 1996 Chevy 1500 is located on the fuel rail under the upper intake manifold plenum. Its primary function is to maintain a constant fuel pressure at the fuel injectors. Fuel injectors have a constant spray, and they are just held open longer by the computer when more fuel is needed. In order to keep a regulated flow, the fuel pump exerts more pressure than needed so it can handle the increased flow when the vehicle is accelerating. The fuel pressure must remain constant across the injectors, however, regardless of the length of time they are open. The regulator allows all the excess fuel to return to the fuel tank.
Step 1
Remove the air cleaner and the air ducting to access the intake manifold, using the appropriate sockets and wrenches.
Step 2
Disconnect the coil wire by pulling it out. Extract the fuel pump fuse from the fuse and relay box on the driver's side fenderwell. Crank the engine over as to start for three seconds to relieve the remaining fuel pressure. Replace the fuse.
Step 3
Remove the upper intake manifold plenum by taking the bolts out with a socket, which will expose the fuel regulator. Pull the vacuum hose off the fuel regulator.
Step 4
Remove the small circlip on the top of the fuel pressure regulator that secures it to the fuel rail, using a scribe to grab the clip. Place a rag under the regulator to capture any remaining fuel as you withdraw it. Pull the regulator out of its port on the fuel rail.
Things You'll Need
- Set of wrenches
- Set of sockets
- Small scribe
Writer Bio
Don Bowman has been writing for various websites and several online magazines since 2008. He has owned an auto service facility since 1982 and has over 45 years of technical experience as a master ASE tech. Bowman has a business degree from Pennsylvania State University and was an officer in the U.S. Army (aircraft maintenance officer, pilot, six Air Medal awards, two tours Vietnam).
