1. Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. This is crucial to prevent accidental sparks.
* Ventilate the area. Make sure the area around the fuel tank is well-ventilated to reduce the risk of fire or explosion. Avoid working near open flames or sparks.
* Wear safety glasses. Protect your eyes from debris or fuel spills.
* Use non-sparking tools. Avoid tools that could create sparks.
2. Locating the Electrical Connections:
* Access the fuel pump: This usually involves removing the rear seats, accessing the fuel filler neck, and potentially removing access panels under the vehicle. Consult a repair manual for your specific model to determine the exact access method. Your vehicle may have a panel providing more direct access above the tank itself.
* Identify the connectors: Once you've accessed the fuel pump, you'll see the electrical connector(s). They're typically plastic and might have a locking mechanism.
3. Disconnecting the Wires:
* Inspect the connectors: Look for any obvious damage or corrosion.
* Release any locking mechanisms: Some connectors have a clip or latch that needs to be pressed or squeezed to release the connection. Others might have a tab you push to release. Gently wiggle the connector to ensure it's disconnected.
* Carefully disconnect the wiring harness: Pull the connector apart gently. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves. If it's difficult to separate, try working the connector back and forth slightly to break any corrosion or binding.
* Label the wires (optional but recommended): Before disconnecting, take pictures or make a diagram or use labels to note which wire goes where. This helps with reassembly.
4. Replacing the Fuel Pump:
After disconnecting the electrical connections, you can proceed with removing and replacing the fuel pump. Remember to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle, which may involve removing the fuel tank straps or using special tools to access the pump.
5. Reconnecting the Wires:
* Carefully align the connectors: Ensure the male and female parts of the connector match up perfectly.
* Push the connector together firmly: You should feel or hear it click into place.
* Reconnect the battery: After you've completed the fuel pump replacement and reconnected the wires, reconnect the battery's negative terminal.
Important Note: A repair manual specific to your 1992 GMC Safari is highly recommended. It will provide detailed instructions and diagrams to help you safely and efficiently complete this task. Improperly handling fuel system components can be dangerous. If you're uncomfortable with this repair, it's best to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.
