Here's a general outline. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1986 Trans Am (a Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment) for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. These instructions are a general guide and may vary slightly depending on your specific model's configuration.
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable.
* Gather Tools: You'll need jack stands, jack, socket set (metric), wrenches, fuel line disconnect tools, safety glasses, gloves, rags, a fuel pump removal tool (may be needed), and potentially a new fuel filter (replace as a preventative measure).
* Drain Fuel: If possible, partially drain the fuel tank to reduce the amount of fuel you'll be working around. This minimizes the risk of spills.
2. Accessing the Fuel Pump:
* Locate the Fuel Pump: The fuel pump is usually located inside the fuel tank. Access is typically gained through a trap door under the rear seat (or sometimes requires dropping the fuel tank). Your repair manual will show the precise location.
* Drop the Fuel Tank (Likely Required): This is the most common method. This involves disconnecting the fuel lines, electrical connectors, and the tank straps. Support the tank with jack stands to prevent damage. Be extremely cautious with fuel lines to prevent fuel spillage.
3. Removing the Fuel Pump:
* Disconnect Electrical Connections: Carefully unplug the fuel pump wiring harness.
* Disconnect Fuel Lines: Use appropriate fuel line disconnect tools to safely separate the fuel lines from the pump. Have rags ready to absorb any spilled fuel.
* Remove the Fuel Pump Assembly: This often involves removing a retaining ring or cover. A specialized fuel pump removal tool can be helpful here. The pump may be part of a larger assembly that needs to be removed as a unit.
4. Installing the New Fuel Pump:
* Install the New Fuel Pump Assembly: Carefully install the new fuel pump assembly, ensuring it's correctly seated.
* Reconnect Fuel Lines: Connect the fuel lines securely, using new fuel line clamps if necessary.
* Reconnect Electrical Connections: Carefully plug in the electrical harness.
* Raise and Secure the Fuel Tank: Carefully raise the fuel tank back into its position and secure it with the straps.
5. Final Steps:
* Reconnect Battery Cable: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
* Check for Leaks: Inspect all fuel lines and connections for leaks.
* Prime the Fuel System: You may need to prime the fuel system (consult your repair manual for the procedure). This often involves turning the ignition key on and off several times without starting the engine to build pressure in the system.
* Start the Engine: Start the engine and check for proper operation. Listen for any unusual noises coming from the fuel pump.
Important Considerations:
* Fuel Pressure: After installation, check fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure the new pump is operating correctly. The specification for your vehicle is in your repair manual.
* Fuel Tank Removal: This process can be challenging and messy. If you lack experience, consider having a professional mechanic perform the repair. Improper handling of fuel can lead to serious injury or fire.
* Replacement Parts: Use only high-quality replacement parts. A low-quality fuel pump can quickly fail.
This is a simplified overview. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 1986 Pontiac Trans Am for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improperly performing this repair can lead to serious damage or injury. If you're not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic.
