To find it:
1. Consult your owner's manual: This is the best starting point. The manual will have a diagram showing the location of all relays and fuses.
2. Check the underhood fuse box: This is the most common location. The cover usually has a diagram showing what each relay controls. Look for a relay labeled "fuel pump," "EFI," or something similar. Sometimes the label is cryptic, like a number code.
3. Look for a separate relay center: Some Chevy vans have a secondary relay center, often located near the battery or on the inner fender. Check this area if you don't find it in the main fuse box.
4. Use a wiring diagram: If you can't locate it visually, a wiring diagram specific to your year and model Chevy van will show the relay's location and circuit. These are available online (often for a fee) through sites like AutoZone, or through repair manuals.
Checking the Fuel Pump Relay:
Once you locate the relay, here's how to check it:
1. Visual Inspection: Check for any obvious signs of damage, such as burns, cracks, or corrosion.
2. Swap the Relay (The Best Test): This is the most effective way to test the relay without specialized equipment. Find a relay of the *same size and amperage* from a different circuit (that you're sure is working, like the horn or headlight relay, *but only if it is the same size and amperage*) and swap it with the fuel pump relay. If the fuel pump now works, the original relay is faulty. Important: *Never* swap relays of different amperages. Doing so can damage the van's electrical system.
3. Testing with a Multimeter (Advanced): If you have a multimeter, you can test the relay's continuity. This requires understanding how relays work electrically. There are many online tutorials showing how to test a relay with a multimeter, but the relay swap is much simpler and safer for someone without electrical experience.
Important Considerations:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable before working with electrical components.
* Fuel Pump Inertia Switch: Some vehicles have an inertia switch that cuts power to the fuel pump in case of a collision. Check this switch (usually located in the passenger compartment) to make sure it hasn't tripped.
* Fuel Pump itself: Even if the relay is good, the fuel pump itself could be faulty. Testing the pump requires more specialized tools or procedures.
If you're not comfortable working on your vehicle's electrical system, it's best to take it to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly diagnosing or repairing electrical problems can lead to further damage.
