General Steps (Vary by Engine Type - Gasoline vs. Diesel):
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
* Gather Tools: You'll need sockets, wrenches (including a fuel line disconnect tool if needed), screwdrivers, a fuel pump removal tool (often a specialized socket), jack stands (to safely support the truck), rags, safety glasses, gloves, and a container to catch spilled fuel. A fuel pressure gauge is helpful for gasoline engines to ensure the system is depressurized.
* Locate the Fuel Pump: The location varies depending on the engine and fuel tank configuration. It's usually accessed from underneath the truck, near the fuel tank.
* Consult a Repair Manual: This step is crucial. A manual specific to your year, make, model, and *engine* will provide detailed diagrams and instructions. Improper procedures can lead to damage or injury.
2. Accessing the Fuel Pump:
* Raise and Secure the Truck: Safely raise the rear of the truck and secure it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Remove Access Panels: Depending on your truck's configuration, you may need to remove bed panels, a fuel tank access plate, or other components to reach the fuel pump.
* Disconnect Fuel Lines: Carefully disconnect the fuel lines leading to and from the fuel pump. Have rags ready to absorb any spilled fuel. Use the proper fuel line disconnect tool to avoid damage. If working on a gasoline engine, carefully depressurize the fuel system per your repair manual.
3. Removing the Fuel Pump:
* Disconnect Electrical Connections: Disconnect the electrical connector from the fuel pump.
* Remove the Fuel Pump: This is where the specialized fuel pump removal tool is usually necessary. This tool typically fits over the retaining ring or nut holding the pump in place. Unscrew and remove the pump assembly.
4. Installing the New Fuel Pump:
* Install the New Fuel Pump: Carefully install the new fuel pump, ensuring it's seated correctly.
* Reconnect Electrical Connections: Reconnect the electrical connector.
* Reconnect Fuel Lines: Reconnect the fuel lines, ensuring they're securely attached and leak-free.
* Reinstall Access Panels: Reinstall any access panels or components you removed.
5. Testing and Finishing:
* Lower the Truck: Carefully lower the truck from the jack stands.
* Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections for leaks.
* Reconnect Battery Terminal: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
* Start the Engine: Start the engine and check for proper fuel pressure (if applicable to your gasoline engine). Listen for any unusual noises from the fuel pump.
* Road Test: Take the truck for a test drive to ensure the fuel pump is functioning correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Fuel Tank Removal: On some models, the entire fuel tank may need to be lowered or removed to access the fuel pump. This is a significantly more involved task.
* Diesel Fuel Pumps: Diesel fuel pump replacement is often more complex due to the higher pressure systems involved and potentially requiring bleeding the fuel lines afterwards. The process may also involve priming the system.
* Priming the Fuel System (Gasoline): After installation, you may need to prime the fuel system by cranking the engine several times (without starting it) to build fuel pressure.
* Professional Assistance: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's always best to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic. This is especially true for diesel engines.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1990 Ford F-350's engine for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improper repair can result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury.
