1. Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. This prevents accidental sparks that could ignite fuel vapors.
* Ventilate the area. Work in a well-ventilated space or outdoors. Fuel vapors are highly flammable.
* Use proper safety gear. Eye protection, gloves, and a respirator are recommended.
* Have a fire extinguisher readily available.
2. Preparation:
* Gather tools: You'll need jack stands, a jack, socket wrenches (various sizes), fuel line disconnect tools, a fuel pump removal tool (often a special socket), safety glasses, and possibly a fuel pump strainer.
* Consult a repair manual: A Chilton's or Haynes repair manual specific to your 2000 Plymouth Breeze will provide detailed instructions and diagrams, including torque specifications. This is crucial to avoid damaging components.
* Drain the fuel tank (partially): This will significantly lighten the tank and make handling easier. You can siphon fuel using a siphon pump or by using a drain valve (if your car has one). Be careful to follow proper fuel handling procedures.
3. Accessing the Fuel Tank:
* Raise the vehicle safely: Use jack stands to support the vehicle securely after raising it with a jack. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Locate the fuel tank: It's typically located under the rear of the vehicle.
* Remove the access panel: There's usually a protective cover or access panel underneath the car, near the fuel tank. You might need to remove some fasteners (bolts or clips) to get to it.
* Disconnect fuel lines: Carefully disconnect the fuel lines. There will be at least two lines—a supply line and a return line. These lines are under pressure, so relieving pressure is important. Use the appropriate tools to disconnect them without damaging the lines or fittings. Many mechanics recommend clamping off the lines before disconnecting to avoid spillage.
* Disconnect electrical connectors: There will be one or more electrical connectors to the fuel pump module. Disconnect these carefully.
* Lower the fuel tank: This usually involves removing tank straps or supports and carefully lowering the tank. A helper is often useful for this step. The straps may be bolted to the chassis, requiring removal of nuts and bolts. Often, there is a fuel tank retaining strap on each side.
4. Replacing the Fuel Pump:
* Access the fuel pump: Once the tank is lowered, the fuel pump assembly is usually accessible from the top of the tank.
* Remove the fuel pump: Use the correct tool to remove the fuel pump retaining ring and carefully pull the pump assembly out.
* Install the new fuel pump: Install the new fuel pump assembly, making sure it's seated correctly.
* Reassemble everything: Put everything back together in reverse order, ensuring all connections are secure and tightened to the proper specifications (refer to your repair manual).
5. Final Steps:
* Lower the fuel tank carefully.
* Reconnect fuel lines and electrical connectors.
* Lower the vehicle.
* Reconnect the battery.
* Check for leaks and proper operation.
Disclaimer: This is a general overview. Improper procedures can lead to injury or damage. Consult a repair manual specific to your 2000 Plymouth Breeze and if you're not comfortable performing this repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Working with fuel is dangerous; mistakes can have serious consequences.
