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.
7 - Fuel Pump LEAKDOWN Test
TOOLS REQUIRED: SA9127E-7 Fuel Flow/Pressure Test Adapter
This test will determine if the fuel pump will maintain pressure after the pump is turned OFF.
For this test, the vehicle will be raised on the hoist and a means of controlling the fuel pump from under the vehicle is required. The Scan tool readily provides this function. Refer to ENERGIZING THE FUEL PUMP .
- Connect Scan tool to vehicle and turn Ignition to ON.
- Relieve fuel system pressure. Refer to RELIEVING FUEL PRESSURE .
- Raise vehicle to comfortable working position.
- Disconnect fuel feed (5/16 in.) and fuel return (3/8 in.) lines at fuel filter/pressure regulator.NOTE: To properly utilize the fuel flow/pressure test adapter, it must always be connected with the fuel feed line on the "INLET" side of the adapter and the fuel return or drain line connected to the side with the flow control (ON/OFF) valve. If not connected properly, a "zero" pressure reading will always be read. Use the appropriately sized connector fittings to hookup the adapter to the feed and return lines.
- Connect Fuel Flow/Pressure Test Adapter SA9127E-7 to (1) feed and (2) return lines and make sure connections are firmly latched.
- Connect fuel pressure gauge to test adapter.
- Turn On/Off flow valve on test adapter to ON.
- Energize fuel pump.
- Shut fuel pump Off and wait 5 minutes.
- Record fuel pressure and subtract from pressure recorded in step 3.
- Compare pressure loss (decay) to published specification.
- Return to FUEL SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS - FUEL SUPPLY CHART and use test result to make appropriate decision.
NO RELATED
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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.