SYS.OK|MANUAL.DB● LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET1988CAVALIER VL, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)ENGINE PERFORMANCESYSTEMFUEL INJECTION SYSTEM - MULTI-PORTOPERATIONFUEL PUMP
1988 Chevrolet Cavalier VL, Standard

Fuel Pump

1988 Chevrolet Cavalier VL, StandardSECTION Fuel Pump

Fuel is supplied by an in-tank positive displacement roller vane fuel pump. The pump supplies fuel through the in-line fuel filter to the fuel rail assembly. The pump is removed for service along with fuel gauge sending unit. See Fig 1.

Once removed from tank, pump and sending unit are serviced separately. The pressure relief valve in the fuel pump, controls fuel pump maximum fuel pump pressure at 60-90 psi (4.2-6.3 kg/cm2 ). Excess fuel flows through pressure regulator and returns to the tank.

The constant flow of cool fuel prevents fuel vapor bubbles. When ignition is turned on, fuel pump relay activates the fuel pump for 2 seconds to prime the injectors. If engine does not start within this time, the ECM deactivates fuel pump until engine starts.

After engine starts, the ECM closes the fuel pump relay, activating the fuel pump. As a back-up system to fuel pump relay, fuel pump can also be activated by an oil pressure switch. The oil pressure switch is normally open until oil pressure reaches approximately 4 psi (.28 kg/cm2 ). If fuel pump relay fails, the oil pressure switch closes when oil pressure is obtained, operating the fuel pump. Inoperative fuel pump relay may result in extended cranking times.

Fig 1: Typical In-Tank Roller Vane Fuel Pump
G3251
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsFree Quote CheckQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.