GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement Modular

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 39765 Fuel Sender Locknut Wrench

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.

Important: Always replace the fuel sender O-rings when reinstalling the fuel sender assembly.


    Object Number: 13586  Size: SH
  1. Relieve the fuel system fuel pressure. Refer to the Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure 4.0L, Fuel Pressure Relief , 3.8L.
  2. Drain the fuel tank to no more than 1/4 of a tank full. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement (Draining Fuel Tank) 4.0L, Fuel Tank Draining , 3.8L.

  3. Object Number: 32756  Size: SH
  4. Remove the spare tire cover, the jack, and the spare tire.
  5. Remove the rear compartment trim. Refer to Body Rear End.
  6. Remove the fuel sender access panel bolts from the fuel sender access panel.

  7. Object Number: 32673  Size: SH
  8. Remove the quick-connect fittings at the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Servicing Quick Connect Fittings 4.0L, Servicing Quick Connect Fittings , 3.8L.
  9. Remove the electrical connector at the fuel sender.
  10. Remove the fuel sender retaining ring using the J 39765 Fuel Sender Spanner Wrench.
  11. Important: When removing the modular fuel sender assembly from the fuel tank, the reservoir bucket on the fuel sender assembly is full of fuel. The modular fuel sender assembly must be tipped slightly during removal in order to avoid damage to the float. Place any remaining fuel into an approved container once the modular fuel sender assembly is removed from the fuel tank.

    Important: The modular fuel sender assembly will spring-up when the locking ring is removed.

  12. Pull the modular fuel sender straight up while pumping the fuel from the reservoir.
  13. Clean the fuel sender assembly O-ring sealing surfaces.
  14. Inspect the fuel sender assembly O-ring sealing surfaces.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 32673  Size: SH
  1. Position the new fuel sender assembly O-ring on the fuel tank.
  2. Important: Care should be taken not to fold over or twist the fuel pump strainer when installing the fuel sender assembly, as this will restrict fuel flow. Also, assure that the fuel pump strainer does not block full travel of float arm.

  3. Install the fuel sender assembly and the fuel sender assembly retainer cam using the J 39765 Fuel Sender Spanner Wrench.
  4. Install the quick-connect fittings at the fuel sender assembly. Refer to Servicing Quick Connect Fittings 4.0L, Servicing Quick Connect Fittings , 3.8L.
  5. Install the negative battery cable.
  6. Inspect for leaks.
  7. 5.1. Turn the ignition switch to the On position for 2 seconds.
    5.2. Turn the ignition switch to the Off for 10 seconds.
    5.3. Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
    5.4. Check for fuel leaks.

    Object Number: 32756  Size: SH
  8. Install the fuel sender access panel.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 2 N·m (18 lb in).

  10. Install the rear compartment trim. Refer to Body Rear End.
  11. Install the spare tire, the jack, and the spare tire cover.

  12. Object Number: 13586  Size: SH
  13. Add fuel and install the fuel tank filler pipe cap.