The fuel pump in your 1989 Mustang provides high-pressure fuel to the injection system under the hood. As the pump wears and fuel pressure drops, the injectors are not able to provide properly atomized fuel. This can cause a gradual loss of performance and fuel economy until the fuel pump finally fails completely. Replacement of the fuel pump can take a little time, but the average home mechanic can complete this repair in an afternoon.
Tools Used: Wrench set, Screwdriver set, Socket set, Ford fuel line tool, Hammer, Punch
Install a Fuel Pump
Remove the negative battery cable using a 1/2-inch wrench and lay it aside in a position where it will not make accidental contact with the battery terminal. Press the valve in the fuel pressure test port, located on the fuel rail attached to the fuel injectors, to relieve residual fuel pressure. Drain as much gasoline as possible by siphoning it into an approved container using a hose specifically designed for siphoning fuel.
Block the front wheels using wheel chocks. Raise and support the rear wheels using a floor jack and position jack stands under the rear axle near the rear wheels. Lower the Mustang onto the stands and remove the floor jack. Unbolt the two rear exhaust hangers so that the exhaust can be moved slightly when removing the fuel tank.
Disconnect fuel lines by snapping the Ford fuel line tool around the line, near the quick disconnect and then pushing the tool into the disconnect to unlatch it. Twist and pull the line to separate the connector. Unbolt the filler neck from the body of the car by removing the three 10-mm screws that are located behind the fuel door. Unplug the fuel pump wiring electrical connector.
Support the fuel tank with the floor jack and remove the 15-mm tank strap bolts that attach the tank to the floor of the car. Lower the tank to the ground slowly, using the floor jack and slide it out from under the car.
Clear any dirt and debris from the top of the fuel tank to prevent it from falling into the tank when the pump assembly is removed. Remove the fuel pump assembly by rotating the lock ring on top of the tank counterclockwise using the hammer and chisel. Pull the fuel pump assembly out of the fuel tank. Loosen the clamp that attaches the pump to the assembly, using a screwdriver. Unplug the electrical connector located on top of the pump, and slip the pump out of the assembly.
Slip the new pump into place in the assembly and install the new fuel strainer on the bottom of the pump. Plug the electrical connector into the new pump and reinstall the assembly into the fuel tank.
Slide the fuel tank under the car and lift it into position. Bolt it to the floor of the car using the tank straps. Plug the fuel lines, and electrical connector back in. Bolt the filler neck back in place. Fill the tank with fuel. Lower the car to the ground by lifting it off the jack stands and removing the stands before lowering the floor jack slowly.
Reinstall the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition switch to the "On" position and back to the "Off" position three times to prime the fuel system. Start the engine and check for leaks.
Tips & Warnings
Wear safety glasses and work gloves to prevent injuries and skin irritation from spilled fuel.
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