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How do you change the fuel pump on a 1997 Mercury Tracer?

Tools and Materials Needed:

- Replacement Fuel Pump

- Pliers

- Screwdriver

- Wrench set

- Safety glasses

- Gloves

- Rags

- Fuel line disconnect tool

- Fuel pressure relief tool

Instructions:

1. Preparations:

- Park your car on a level surface and apply the parking brake.

- Engage gear if it is a manual transmission.

- Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself.

2. Relieve Fuel Pressure:

- Locate the fuel pressure relief valve on your car's fuel injector rail (Usually a small capped fitting or a Schrader valve).

- Press the valve in carefully with a fuel pressure relief tool or a small screwdriver to release fuel pressure.

3. Disconnect Battery:

- To prevent any accidental electrical sparks during the process, disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery.

4. Remove the Fuel Tank Pressure Cap:

- To relieve any residual pressure in the fuel system, remove the gas cap from the fuel tank.

5. Disconnect Fuel Lines:

- Locate and disconnect the fuel supply and return lines from the fuel pump assembly. Use a fuel line disconnect tool to depress the retaining tabs and pull the fuel lines off the pump.

6. Remove the Fuel Filter:

- In some cases, the fuel filter may be integrated with the fuel pump assembly. If this is the case, you will need to remove or unbolt the fuel filter from the pump.

7. Remove the Fuel Pump Assembly:

- Depending on your car model, you might need to remove other components like the rear bench or access panel to reach the fuel pump assembly.

- Once you have access, locate and remove the retaining bolts or screws holding the fuel pump assembly in place.

- Lower the fuel pump assembly using pliers or by unscrewing.

8. Disconnect Electrical Connectors:

- Inside the fuel tank, there will be electrical connectors that supply power to the fuel pump. Disconnect these connectors.

9. Remove the Fuel Pump Assembly:

- Now you can remove the fuel pump assembly from the gas tank. Be cautious as it might contain some residual fuel.

10. Transfer Components to New Pump:

- Transfer components like the fuel level sender unit and gasket from the old fuel pump assembly to the new one if necessary.

11. Install the New Fuel Pump:

- Place the new fuel pump assembly into the fuel tank.

- Connect the fuel pump electrical connectors.

- Mount the fuel pump assembly and secure it with the retaining bolts or screws removed earlier.

12. Reconnect Fuel Lines:

- Reattach the fuel supply and return lines to the fuel pump assembly. Make sure they are properly secured.

13. Reinstall Fuel Filter (if applicable):

- If you removed or unbolted the fuel filter, reattach it to the fuel pump assembly and secure it properly.

14. Reinstall Fuel Tank Pressure Cap:

- Replace the fuel tank pressure cap and tighten it securely.

15. Reconnect the Battery:

- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

16. Start the Engine:

- Start your car and let it run for a few minutes to allow the fuel system to pressurize.

17. Check for Leaks:

- Inspect the fuel lines and connections for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections or replace the fuel lines as needed.

18. Test Drive:

- Take your car for a test drive to ensure the fuel pump is working properly and the fuel system is functioning smoothly.

Note:

- If the fuel pressure relief valve is not accessible or hard to locate on your car, you might need to consult a repair manual specific to your 1997 Mercury Tracer model for further instructions.

- Always follow the safety precautions and guidelines in the vehicle's repair manual when working on the fuel pump or any fuel-related components.