Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2004 Pontiac GTO AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Fuel System Cleaning
Tools Required
- J 34730-1A Fuel Pressure Gage
- J 45722 Fuel Sender Lock Ring Wrench. See Special Tools and Equipment .
- J 45004 Fuel Tank Drain Hose. See Special Tools and Equipment .
- J 42960-2 Fuel Flapper Door Holder. See Special Tools and Equipment .
IMPORTANT:
- Only use oil free compressed air to blow out the fuel pipes.
- Inspect the fuel tank internally and clean the fuel tank if you find a plugged fuel filter.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable.
- Relieve the fuel system pressure. Refer to the Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure .
- Drain the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Draining Procedure .
- Remove the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .
- Remove the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .
- Inspect the fuel pump strainer. Replace a contaminated strainer and inspect the fuel pump.
- Inspect the fuel pump inlet for dirt and debris. Replace the fuel pump if you find dirt or debris in the fuel pump inlet.
- Flush the fuel tank with hot water.
- Pour the water out of the fuel sender assembly opening. Rock the tank to ensure that all water is removed from the tank.
- Install the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .
- Install the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement .
- Refill the fuel tank.
- Install the fuel filler cap.
- Connect the negative battery cable.
- Inspect for leaks.
- Turn ON the ignition for 2 seconds.
- Turn OFF the ignition for 10 seconds.
- Turn ON the ignition.
- Inspect for fuel leaks.
CAUTION:
Refer to the Battery Disconnect Caution in Cautions and Notices.
IMPORTANT:
When flushing the fuel tank, handle the fuel and water mixture as a hazardous material. Handle the fuel and water mixture in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.
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