Hey all. Car died on me suddenly at an intersection. I decided to replace the fuel filter. It had not been changed since new (car has 160k miles). After removing the front bolt, fuel poured out as expected. However, after removing the rear bolt assembly, nothing came out of the line from the tank. I then noticed the shrader (sp?) valve. After reinstall of the new filter I put the key in the number 2 position and pressed the valve down to see if there was any pressure, again, nothing.

Is this the correct procedure? Should I have someone attempt to start the car and then push down on the valve?

If I am correct where might I find the relay to the pump just to rule that out? Would the owners manual show its location?

Are there two pumps on this car?

I went by a local NAPA store and they showed an in-line pump in stock ($169.00) which the counter guy stated sometimes indicate that these are common to go bad and thats why they keep one around. They did not have the in-tank pump ($469.00) in stock. This is the reason for question number 3. I would much rather replace the in line if there is one. have to take to a mechanic for the in tank.

Thanks for any help you can give me.

 

Is the car running?

There are is only one pump on your year car. The fuel pump does not run unless the engine is running. So your test of the schrader valve is inconclusive. But if the fuel pump kicks on for a split second when turning the key, shuts off until the engine is running, but it should hold pressure during that time. Not sure where the fuel pump relay is on your model year, could still be behind the cig. lighter in the center console.

150k on a fuel pump seems about right.

I would pressure test the system, using the schrader valve at the injection rail.

DanR '94 964 343,000 miles (109,000 on the new engine)