My PA is not starting and I have no fuel pressure at the rail. I have checked the fuse, checked at the fuel pump control module and at the connector at the fuel pump, I have power all the way to the pump connector. So, looks like I have a toasted fuel pump. Is there any other test that I should do before laying down the big bucks?

Should I stick to AC/Delco as a replacement or are other brands just as reliable - NAPA, O'Riley, Auto Zone etc.?

You said that you checked for power pretty much everywhere.... I assume that you are sure that the pump is actually NOT running right?

I am not really sure on any other tests for the pump itself, but I would also check the filter. Whether or not the pump is bad and needs replaced, I would change out the filter. Cheap insurance at around $8. Plus a plugged filter can kill a fuel pump, it may still spin / power up, but it won't build any pressure. ( happened on my sisters '01 Malibu )

I don't know if it'* there on your newer car, but on at least early 90'* h-bodies there is an empty green electical connector above the battery. It'* the fuel pump prime lead. Connect a fused (20 amp should do it) 8 gauge wire to it and the positive terminal of the battery. The pump should kick on if it'* alive.

I would stick it out with an AC Delco. Other brands do work..I've used the Advance Auto ones..I think it was a Carter. If money is tight..head that way.

It will come with a new strainer sock, and while you are at it..change out the fuel filter as mentioned above. Beyond that..the only other thing I might try (if you are unsure if pump is running) is to remove the vacuum line to the regulator to check for any fuel in it.

Thanks for the feedback. At least there is an access panel in the trunk for the fuel pump and I didn't have to drop the tank.

I think everyone should drop the tank...it'* a character building experience.

That panel should save you a ton of time.

Now I'm looking for tips and tricks to get the locking ring off that holds the fuel pump in. I had assumed that a few hits with my brass punch against the ring would get it to rotate and come off. Well so much for my assumptions! Maybe Boost is right and I need to go throughthe character building exercise and get this thing in the open where I can get to it better.

Has anyone developed their own wrench to twist the ring off or do I just keep at it with a hammer and punch? Does any of the wrench suppliers have an adjustable spanner that will work? For you guys that have replaced a fuel pump, how did you get the ring off?

Thanks

There is an actual tool for that ring. Most of the time when you hit the ring..it moves to one side and binds up. Use a screwdriver or some other tool not intended for prying and push it back to a more centered position. Hit again..You'll get it.

Boosty is right, perservance does pay off. One of my troubles was that is was difficult to get a good straight hit on the locking ring. I had been trying to use my brass punch, to eliminate the chance for sparks, but it didn't engage the ring very well. I resorted to a good old fashioned flat blade screwdriver and was able to persuade it to turn.

After that the replacement was actually anticlimatic. And the good news is that it runs again!!!!

I'll have to save that character building exercise until I have to do the same thing to my Bonne!

Thanks to all for the input and feedback.

Glad to hear that it worked for you.

Did you replace the fuel filter also? If not, it would really bo a good idea to do so.