Nissan Repair: checking fuel pressure of 2001 Nissan Sentra, fuel pressure gauge, fuel pressure regulator

Question
How do I check the fuel pressure of my 2001 nissan sentra GXE, and where can I find the fuel pump and filter?

Answer
Mike,

The fuel pump and filter are in the gas tank.  You have to purchase a special adapter since Nissan deleted the schrader valve on the fuel rail.  Plus there is no return line at the intake since the pump is designed with the fuel pressure regulator and filter as an assembly in the tank.  There are dampners at the engine to compensate for high demand situations located at the fuel rail.  You will have to go to Nissan and get them to supply you with the adapter that has to be installed, in-line, and then get a fuel pressure gauge to check the fuel pressure.  The fun part is that you have to remove the back seat and the cover that allows access to the fuel pump.  The large line is the one you disconnect and install the adapter to the pump and the line to the adapter.  Then, you screw on the fuel pressure gauge.  It is nice that you are going to spend something like $100 dollars between the adapter and thefuel pressure gauge just to see if you have sufficient fuel pressure.  Oh, the fuel filter in the tank is part of the pump assembly and Nissan says it does not require replacement.  But, you can purchase one since you will be back there anyway.  I always change the filter when I have the pump removed as a precaution.  Lastly, Snap-On has the adapter too and if you see the Snap-On truck you can pull them over and buy one from them.  The dealer does not stock them and they will not let you borrow one since the shop usually only has one adapter.  Look for three days on delivery if you go the dealer route.  Or, go to courtesynissan.com and order one through them.