Before You Begin:
1. Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal. This prevents accidental shorts and protects you from electrical hazards.
2. Safety First: Work in a well-ventilated area away from any ignition sources. Have a fire extinguisher readily available. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
3. Gather Tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including:
* Socket set (metric)
* Wrenches (metric)
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
* Fuel pump pliers or a fuel line disconnect tool
* Torque wrench (for proper tightening)
* Jack and jack stands (crucial for safety)
* Wheel chocks
* Shop rags or absorbent cloths
* Fuel line clamps (if needed)
* New fuel pump (ensure it's the correct one for your vehicle)
* Possibly a fuel pressure gauge (to check pressure after installation)
Procedure:
1. Vehicle Preparation: Park the Concorde on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks for extra safety. Raise the rear of the vehicle using a jack and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Access the Fuel Pump: This typically involves removing the rear seat bottom cushion (often simply lifts up) and accessing a protective cover over the fuel pump. You may need to remove additional panels or fasteners depending on the exact model. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1999 Chrysler Concorde for precise instructions on accessing the fuel pump.
3. Disconnect Fuel Lines and Electrical Connections: This is the most critical step. Use the fuel line disconnect tool to carefully release the fuel lines from the fuel pump. Have absorbent cloths ready to catch any spilled fuel. Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors to the fuel pump.
4. Remove the Fuel Pump: Once the lines and electrical connectors are disconnected, you'll likely need to remove a retaining ring or clamp that secures the fuel pump assembly. The pump assembly might be a unit (pump and sending unit together). The whole assembly will be lifted out.
5. Install the New Fuel Pump: Install the new fuel pump assembly in reverse order of removal. Ensure all seals and gaskets are correctly positioned.
6. Reconnect Fuel Lines and Electrical Connections: Carefully reconnect the fuel lines and electrical connectors, ensuring they're securely fastened. Check for leaks before proceeding.
7. Lower the Vehicle and Test: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands. Reconnect the battery. Try to start the car. Check for leaks around the fuel pump area.
8. Pressure Test (Recommended): After the car runs, it's advisable to have the fuel pressure tested by a professional to ensure the new pump is operating correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1999 Chrysler Concorde is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your vehicle's make and model.
* Fuel System Pressure: Be aware that there will be fuel pressure in the lines. Relieving this pressure is often part of the process; your repair manual will detail this.
* Safety: Gasoline is extremely flammable. Take all necessary safety precautions throughout the entire process.
Disclaimer: This is a general guide. The exact steps may vary depending on your specific vehicle. Incorrectly performing this repair can lead to serious injury or damage to your vehicle. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it is strongly recommended to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
