The fuel pump on the 1998 Ford Explorer transports fuel from the gas tank to the engine compartment. The fuel pump is electronic and is activated when the ignition is turned on. It can often be heard for a moment when the ignition key is first turned. If the fuel pump malfunctions, the engine may idle low or shut off, and if it fails completely, the engine will not operate. To replace the fuel pump on a 1998 Ford Explorer, you will need to remove the gas tank from the vehicle.
Empty the gas tank using a fuel siphoning kit. Store the gas in an EPA-approved container.
Relieve the fuel pressure by removing the fuel pump relay from the fuse box under the hood and starting the vehicle. The engine will run for a few seconds and shut off after burning the remaining gas in the fuel line.
Disconnect the negative cable from the battery terminal. Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Disconnect the fuel filler neck and vent hose by removing the clamps. Remove the ground strap. Disconnect the fuel pump electrical connector.
Support the fuel tank using a jack. Remove the rear retaining bracket. Slide the fuel tank toward the rear of the vehicle to remove it from the front bracket.
Remove the fuel lines using the disconnect tool. Remove the fuel pump bolts and slide the fuel pump out of the tank. Disconnect the remaining electrical connector and remove the fuel pump from the work area.
Install the new fuel pump and assemble the fuel tank. Reinstall the fuel tank and connect the fuel lines. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle. Connect the battery and reinstall the fuel pump relay.
