GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Cleaning Procedure

Tools Required

J 34730 , Fuel Pressure Gauge

Notice: Cap the fittings and plug the holes when servicing the fuel system in order to prevent dirt and other contaminants from entering the open pipes and passages.

Important: When flushing the fuel tank, the fuel and water mixture needs to be treated as a hazardous material. The material needs to be handled in accordance with all local, state and federal laws and regulations.

Important: When ever the fuel tank is cleaned, the fuel pump fuel strainer must be inspected. If the fuel pump fuel strainer is contaminated, the fuel pump fuel strainer must be replaced and the fuel pump must be inspected.

Important: Always maintain cleanliness when servicing fuel system components.


    Object Number: 292143  Size: SH
  1. Relieve the fuel system fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Relief .
  2. Drain the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Draining .
  3. Caution: Provide additional support when a vehicle is on a hoist:

       • Before removing parts, support the opposite end. This helps prevent the vehicle from slipping off.
       • Before removing major components, chain the vehicle frame to the hoist pads at the same end as the removal. This helps avoid a tip-off.
    Failure to follow these precautions could cause vehicle damage, serious personal injury, or death.

  4. Raise the vehicle.
  5. Remove the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .

  6. Object Number: 66012  Size: SH
  7. Remove the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .
  8. Important: When flushing the fuel tank, the fuel and water mixture needs to be treated as a hazardous material. The material needs to be handled in accordance with all local, state, and fedral regulations.

  9. Pour water into the fuel sender assembly opening in the fuel tank.
  10. Flush the fuel tank with hot water.
  11. Rock the fuel tank in order to be sure that the removal of the water from the fuel tank is complete.
  12. Important: Let fuel tank dry before installing the fuel sender assembly.

  13. Install the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .

  14. Object Number: 292143  Size: SH
  15. Install the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .
  16. Add fuel and install the fuel tank filler pipe cap.
  17. Install the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
  18. Inspect for leaks.
  19. 13.1. Turn the ignition switch ON for 2 seconds.
    13.2. Turn the ignition switch OFF for 10 seconds.
    13.3. Turn the ignition switch ON.
    13.4. Visually inspect the fuel system for fuel leaks.

    Object Number: 289014  Size: SH
  20. Install the fuel injection sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .