GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 39765 Fuel Sender Lock Nut Wrench

Caution: Gasoline or gasoline vapors are highly flammable. A fire could occur if an ignition source is present. Never drain or store gasoline or diesel fuel in an open container, due to the possibility of fire or explosion. Have a dry chemical (Class B) fire extinguisher nearby.

Caution: Provide proper ventilation when working with fuel in enclosed areas where fuel vapors can collect. The lack of adequate ventilation may result in personal injury.

Caution: Always wear safety goggles when working with fuel in order to protect the eyes from fuel splash.

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: Always replace the fuel sender O-rings when reinstalling the fuel sender assembly.

Important: The modular fuel sender assembly will spring-up when the snap ring is removed.

Important: When removing the modular fuel sender assembly from the fuel tank, the reservoir bucket on the fuel sender assembly is full of fuel. The modular fuel sender assembly must be tipped slightly during removal in order to avoid damage to the float. Place any remaining fuel into an approved container once the modular fuel sender assembly is removed from the fuel tank.

Important: Always maintain cleanliness when servicing the fuel system components.


    Object Number: 65739  Size: SH
  1. Relieve the fuel system fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Relief .
  2. Remove the rear compartment trim panel. Refer to Rear Compartment Trim Panel Replacement in Body Rear End.
  3. Remove the nuts retaining the fuel sender access panel.
  4. Remove the fuel sender access panel.
  5. Disconnect the fuel sender electrical connectors.
  6. Clean the fuel pipes and the fuel sender assembly to prevent fuel contamination during the removal.
  7. Disconnect the quick-connect fittings at the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Plastic Collar Quick Connect Fitting Service .

  8. Object Number: 66012  Size: SH
  9. Use the J 39765 fuel sender lock nut wrench to remove the lock ring retaining the fuel sender.
  10. Remove the modular fuel sender assembly.
  11. Clean and inspect the O-ring sealing surfaces of the fuel sender assembly .

Installation Procedure

Notice: Always re-attach the fuel lines and fuel filter with all original type fasteners and hardware.

Do not repair sections of fuel pipes.

Important: Care should be taken not to fold over or twist the fuel pump strainer when installing the fuel sender assembly, as this will restrict fuel flow. Also, ensure that the fuel pump strainer does not block full travel of float arm.

Important: Ensure that the snap ring retaining the fuel sender assembly is fully seated within the tab slots on the fuel tank.


    Object Number: 66012  Size: SH
  1. Position the new fuel sender assembly O-ring on the fuel tank.
  2. Important: The Fuel Sender Assembly is spring loaded, it will be necessary to hold the sender in place.

  3. Install the fuel sender assembly into the fuel tank.
  4. Use the J 39765 fuel sender lock nut wrench to install the snap ring retaining the fuel sender assembly .
  5. Connect the fuel sender assembly electrical connectors.
  6. Install the quick-connect fittings at the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Plastic Collar Quick Connect Fitting Service .
  7. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  8. Perform the following procedure to check for fuel leaks:
  9. 7.1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position for 2 seconds.
    7.2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF for 10 seconds.
    7.3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position again.
    7.4. Visually inspect the fuel system for fuel leaks.

    Object Number: 65739  Size: SH
  10. Install the fuel sender access panel.
  11. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  12. Install the nuts (7) retaining the fuel sender access panel.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 10 N·m (8 lb ft)

  14. Install the rear compartment trim panel. Refer to Rear Compartment Trim Panel Replacement in Body Rear End.
  15. Install the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement in Engine Mechanical.