GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Caution: In order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury that may result from a fuel leak, always replace the fuel sender gasket when reinstalling the fuel sender assembly.

Notice: Do Not handle the fuel sender assembly by the fuel pipes. The amount of leverage generated by handling the fuel pipes could damage the joints.


    Object Number: 172721  Size: SH

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Relieve the fuel system pressure. Refer to the Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure .
  3. Drain the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Draining .
  4. Remove the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .
  5. Remove the fuel sender assembly retaining nuts (1), the retaining ring (2), the fuel sender assembly (3), and the seal (4). Discard the seal.
  6. Caution: Drain the fuel from the fuel sender assembly into an approved container in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury. Never store the fuel in an open container.

  7. Clean the seal sealing surfaces.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 172942  Size: SH
  1. Install the new seal on the fuel sender assembly.
  2. Important: The fuel pump strainer must be in a horizontal position when the fuel sender is installed in the tank. When installing the fuel sender assembly, assure that the fuel pump strainer does not block full travel of the float arm.

  3. Carefully fold the strainer over itself in order to allow the strainer to fit through the opening in the fuel tank. Make sure the strainer unfolds once it is placed in the tank.

  4. Object Number: 172721  Size: SH
  5. Install the fuel sender assembly (3) into the fuel tank.
  6. 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.

  7. Install the fuel sender assembly retaining nuts (1).
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the fuel sender assembly retaining nuts alternately and evenly to 6.5 N·m (58 lb in).

  9. Install the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .
  10. Refill the fuel tank.
  11. Install the fuel filler cap.
  12. Connect the negative battery cable.
  13. Inspect for leaks.
  14. 9.1. Turn the ignition switch ON for 2 seconds.
    9.2. Turn the ignition switch OFF for 10 seconds.
    9.3. Turn the ignition switch ON.
    9.4. Check for fuel leaks.
  15. Perform the Idle Learn Procedure. Refer to Idle Learn .