2004 Tahoe fuel issues.

[JFranks]

My wife's Tahoe has shutoff several times on her. I was driving it today when it happened. It acts like its out of fuel. The fuel pump relay was extremely hot. I swapped it with a similar one and got it cranked. 20 miles later same thing. This time it tried to idle around 100 rpm and sputtered until I cut it off. I loosened the gas cap thinking it may be a vaccum issue. Still nothing. After about 15 minutes of setting and trying it cranked. Had over half tank but decided to top it off. It's been idling and running smooth for the last 30minutes. I'll know shortly how it will handle the interstate. Anybody have any ideas on what could be the issue? Gas needle is close to accurate. Could pump be getting hot or going out? Thanks for your help!!

 

[01ssreda4]

Sounds like you need a pump.

 

[JFranks]

That's what I was thinking, just looking for some confirmation. Thanks.

 

[01ssreda4]

Not a bad job to do if your mechanically inclined.

 

[JFranks]

I can swap it out. I'm driving it now. Since it has set and cooled for a couple of hours, it is running better. It has 270,000 on it. I believe I got the best of it!

 

[ccapehartusarmyINF.(ret)]

make sure the gas tanks empty Rolfmao i shit u not ive seen a dude ub bolt those straps that hold up the tank when the tank was still almost full

 

[JFranks]

I bet he won't do that again! I'm going to drive it around locally till Friday. If it last till then. I'll pump out what's left. Anybody use the Carquest pump for $240? Or should I go with the Delphi brand?

 

[Red Rider]

I think I may have to do mine too. So I would love to hear what brand pumps people are using.

 

[JFranks]

If you order it online at Advance auto parts you get a 20% discount making the total $200. It's a Carquest brand pump. I'll let you know how it works.

 

[01ssreda4]

I bought an ac delco assembly off rock auto

 

[Red Rider]

How long does this job take?

Do the pumps generally come with gaskets? I also read that it is good to replace the lock ring that can get rusted out.

Any other words of advice from those who have done this?

 

[Chizzychase]

I had mine done by someone. It's not hard to do but I didn't feel like going through the trouble of dropping the tank and everything. The new assembly should come with all new gaskets and everything. As far as the lock ring goes if its not expensive for a new one I would get it just in case especially if you live up north or the vehicle spent a significant amount of time up there at one point.

 

[01ssreda4]

If the tank is near empty the job is cake

 

[Red Rider]

I was going to replace fuel filter at same time. Do you need an SST to remove it?

 

[01ssreda4]

Depending on the year, it may not have a filter.

 

[00YukonSLT5.3Rwd]

Best off doing the whole sending unit. Mine came with a new connector for the pump as well. Make sure you use good weatherproof crimp connectors and a decent crimp tool for making the connections.

 

[SLCHOE]

How long does this job take?

Do the pumps generally come with gaskets? I also read that it is good to replace the lock ring that can get rusted out.

Any other words of advice from those who have done this?

I was going to replace fuel filter at same time. Do you need an SST to remove it?

If you are doing it on jackstands it will be about 2.5 hours. Just make sure you run the tank empty before you do it. Spray all the fuel tank hanger hardware with penetrating oil 10 minutes before you remove them and take your time with the fuel line connections. Also don't kink or break any plastic lines.

Yes, the assembly comes with a new large o-ring type gasket. Tip: make sure you coat the whole o-ring with di-electric grease as it aids installation.

If you live in the rustbelt or where winters means salt on the roads then I would suggest the lock ring. Otherwise they hold up pretty well.

If there is a fuel filter, you should always replace it with a new pump. A clogged filter can cause the new pump to work too hard and shorten it's life dramatically while also giving you drivability issues such as lean conditions. No SST's needed for the filter. Just basic line wrenches.

 

[Red Rider]

Thanks Slchoe, that really helps. I should be receiving pump today, with lock ring, and will try to do the work next weekend.

Is there a write up in the FSM? i could not find it. I will look again on line for any write ups on some forums.

 

[Red Rider]

I was watching some videos and seems like some people remove the rear drive shaft? is it really necessary?

 

[01ssreda4]

I didnt remove anything but the tank.