The fuel pump on a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban is responsible for getting the gasoline out of the gas tank and sending it to the engine. If the fuel pump fails, then the engine won't be able to function correctly, and won't run. But before you remove the old fuel pump, it's best to first find out if the fuel pump is actually the problem, or if it's something else. To do so, you need to test the fuel pump, which can be done in under an hour.
Park the Suburban in a quiet area. Put the key in the ignition and turn it to the "ON" position. Listen for the whirring sound coming from the rear driver's side of the SUV. It will turn on for around 2-5 seconds, and is clearly audible without the engine running. If you don't hear it, then the fuel pump may be bad. If you do hear it, proceed to the next step.
Open the gas door and remove the gas cap. Push open the spring loaded door that's inside of the fuel neck with your hand. Have your assistant turn the key to the "ON" position and listen for the fuel pump. If you hear it, proceed forward and if not, then the fuel pump may have failed.
Pop the hood and open the fuse box located on the driver's side of the fender well. Test the fuel pump fuse using a test light, and make sure that there is current going across the fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same size and amperage rating. If the fuse is fine, proceed to the next step.
Locate the fuel port on the passenger side of the engine, directly underneath the upper engine cover. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the port using your hands. Note the pressure with a pencil and paper.
Have your assistant start the Suburban and check the gauge. It should read consistently between 3-10 PSI below the result found in step 4. If not, or if the pressure varies wildly, then the fuel pump is most likely bad and needs to be replaced.
