GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

Refer to J 37088-A , Fuel Line Quick-Connect Separator Tool Set

The following procedure covers disassembly and inspection of the complete fuel supply system. If the fuel system is contaminated, it can be cleaned. The extent of fuel system contamination can usually be determined during disassembly.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

  2. Object Number: 20377  Size: SH
  3. Relieve the fuel system pressure, refer to Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure .

  4. Object Number: 34369  Size: SH
  5. Remove the in-line fuel filter, refer to In-Line Fuel Filter Replacement .
  6. Inspect for contamination of the in-line fuel filter.
  7. If filter is plugged or contaminated, replace it after cleaning fuel pipes.


    Object Number: 23594  Size: SH
  8. Drain fuel tank (1), refer to Fuel Tank Replacement (Draining) .
  9. Remove fuel tank, refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .
  10. Locate the tank in a suitable work area away from heat, flame or other source of ignition.

  11. Object Number: 20380  Size: SH
  12. Remove the modular fuel sender assembly (4), refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .

  13. Object Number: 23659  Size: SH
  14. Inspect fuel sender strainer. If strainer is contaminated, it must be replaced and the fuel tank should be cleaned.
  15. Inspect the fuel pump inlet for dirt and debris. If found, fuel sender should be replaced.
  16. Flush fuel tank with running hot water for at least five minutes.
  17. Pour water out of fuel sender assembly opening.
  18. Rock the tank to be sure that removal of water from tank is complete.
  19. Important: If nylon fuel feed or return pipes become kinked, and cannot be straightened, they must be replaced.


    Object Number: 20383  Size: SH
  20. Remove the fuel feed (1), fuel return (2) and at engine compartment.
  21. If necessary remove the (3) EVAP Pipe.


    Object Number: 12775  Size: SH

    Caution: Wear safety glasses when using compressed air in order to prevent eye injury.

  22. Grasp both ends of the fuel feed pipe connection and twist 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen any dirt in quick connect fittings.

  23. Object Number: 12776  Size: SH
  24. Blow out dirt from quick connect fittings, using compressed air.

  25. Object Number: 12777  Size: SH
  26. Squeeze plastic tabs of male end connector of fuel filter.

  27. Object Number: 12778  Size: SH
  28. Pull connection apart.

  29. Object Number: 12775  Size: SH
  30. Grasp both ends of one fuel return pipe connection and twist 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen any dirt in quick connect fittings.
  31. Caution: Wear safety glasses when using compressed air in order to prevent eye injury.


    Object Number: 12776  Size: SH
  32. Blow out dirt from quick connect fittings, using compressed air.

  33. Object Number: 12777  Size: SH
  34. Squeeze plastic tabs of male end connector of fuel filter.

  35. Object Number: 12778  Size: SH
  36. Pull connection apart.

  37. Object Number: 12776  Size: SH
  38. Insert J 37088-A tool into female connector, then push inward to release male connector.
  39. Repeat for other fitting.

    Notice: Use an emery cloth in order to remove rust or burrs from the fuel pipe. Use a radial motion with the fuel pipe end in order to prevent damage to the O-ring sealing surface.

  40. Apply air pressure to fuel pipes in the opposite direction from normal fuel flow.
  41. Wipe off male pipe ends. Inspect all connectors for dirt and burrs, using a clean shop towel.
  42. Clean components/assemblies as required.
  43. Replace components/assemblies as required.

Installation Procedure

Caution: Always apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe ends before connecting the fuel pipe fittings in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury. This will ensure proper reconnection and prevent a possible fuel leak. During normal operation, the O-rings located in the female connector will swell and may prevent proper reconnection if not lubricated.


    Object Number: 12784  Size: SH
  1. Apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male tube ends of the fuel feed and return engine pipes.

  2. Object Number: 12786  Size: SH
  3. Connect the fuel feed and fuel return pipe quick-connect fittings

  4. Object Number: 12786  Size: SH
  5. Push connectors together to cause the retaining tabs/fingers to snap into place.

  6. Object Number: 12787  Size: SH
  7. Once installed, pull on both ends of each connection to make sure they are secure.

  8. Object Number: 34340  Size: SH
  9. Install fuel sender assembly. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .

  10. Object Number: 34369  Size: SH
  11. Install fuel filter. Refer to In-Line Fuel Filter Replacement .

  12. Object Number: 20380  Size: SH
  13. Install fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .
  14. 7.1. Turn ignition switch to On for 2 seconds.
    7.2. Turn the ignition switch to Off for 5 seconds.
    7.3. Turn the ignition switch On.
    7.4. Check for fuel leaks.