Here's a general outline. This is not a comprehensive guide and should not be considered a substitute for a professional repair manual specific to your 1999 Mercury Cougar. Consult a repair manual for detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and safety precautions.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes, including those for the fuel lines and fuel pump retaining ring (if applicable).
* Fuel line disconnect tool: This prevents damage to the fuel lines.
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safe access to the fuel pump.
* Wrench for the fuel pump electrical connector: Often a special tool but sometimes a flathead screwdriver carefully used can work.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from fuel and sharp objects.
* New fuel pump: Ensure you get the correct replacement part for your Cougar's engine.
* Fuel pump gasket (if needed): Check your repair manual.
* Shop rags or absorbent material: To clean up any spilled fuel.
* Torque wrench: For proper tightening of bolts and nuts.
* Fuel pressure gauge (optional but recommended): To check fuel pressure before and after replacement.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This is crucial to prevent sparks and potential fire.
2. Reduce fuel pressure: There are usually methods to relieve fuel pressure in the system. Your repair manual will explain how to do this safely – often this involves running the engine until it stalls after removing the fuel pump relay. Never attempt to do this with the fuel pump still connected.
3. Access the fuel pump: This typically involves lowering the fuel tank (more common) or accessing it through an access panel in the trunk or under the car. Your repair manual will show exactly how to access it on your Cougar. This may involve removing some interior components.
4. Disconnect fuel lines: Carefully disconnect the fuel supply and return lines using the appropriate fuel line disconnect tool. Have rags ready to absorb any spilled fuel.
5. Disconnect the electrical connector: Carefully disconnect the electrical connector from the fuel pump.
6. Remove the fuel pump: This often involves removing a retaining ring or bolts securing the pump assembly to the fuel tank. Depending on the design you may need to remove the pump from the assembly as one piece or carefully remove the pump.
7. Install the new fuel pump: Install the new fuel pump, ensuring the gasket (if applicable) is properly seated. Reconnect the electrical connector and fuel lines.
8. Reinstall the fuel pump assembly: Carefully reinstall the fuel pump assembly, tightening the retaining ring or bolts to the specified torque.
9. Reconnect the fuel lines and electrical connector: Double-check everything is securely connected.
10. Raise the fuel tank (if applicable): Carefully raise the fuel tank back into place.
11. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
12. Check for leaks: Carefully check all connections for leaks.
13. Start the engine: Check for any fuel leaks and listen for any unusual noises from the fuel pump.
14. Fuel pressure test (optional but recommended): If you have a fuel pressure gauge, check the fuel pressure to ensure the new pump is functioning correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Safety: Fuel is highly flammable. Work in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames or sparks.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1999 Mercury Cougar is absolutely essential. This outline is a very general overview and may not be accurate for your specific vehicle.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Replacing a fuel pump incorrectly can lead to serious problems.
This information is for guidance only. Always consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle and prioritize safety. Improper repair can lead to serious injury or damage.
