Question for Mechanic

Hey guys, I need some info.

I have a 1996 Grand Am 3.1 SE.

The fuel tank is done, leaking quite badly, so obviously needs replacing.
Not a big deal, I can get a tank for $150 ish and straps/lines for another $75-100.

Now, what are the chances of saving the pump?
I know the pump is in good working order, but I also know sometimes when replacing the tank, the pump will go with it.

I cannot afford a new pump as I'm looking at another $450+ just for the pump, the car isn't worth that much and I can't afford it anyway.

So, as I said, if I take it to a shop, are they likely to tell me I have to have a new pump? or would they possibly be able to reuse the old pump in the new tank?

Obviously I wont hold anyone to their answers, just after your opinions as this is drifting a little out of my realm of knowledge.

 

If the pump is working OK now, a good mechanic should be able to transfer it to your new tank with no trouble.
Have done many through the years. Would want to replace the filter sock on the pump,though. Just as a preventative measure.
If they say they can't, they are just trying to gouge some extra $$$ from you.

 

Thank you good, sir, thats pretty much what I wanted to know.

How much money would a filter sock cost me approx? in USD.

Oh one other thing, what kind of time would it take to do the job roughly?

 

If your old tank is empty, you could probably do it yourself in about 1-1 1/2 hours.
Sock for the pump shouldn't be more than $25-$30. Possibly less.
I never let a charging mechanic do something that I can do myself. I would rather keep my $$$ in my pocket. Just tight that way.

 

Ok, thanks man, I'm undecided whether I'll do it or not, I'll see how much the local shop wants and decide from there, just wanted an unbiased opinion.

 

Hi Nedlamar! This is Wanda and I'm going to turn you over to my other half to answer your question. Here he is, meet Dan: Depenting on the shop they can save the pump, if they will is anothe story. When you drop the tank be carefull, the lines and wires are not usually that long. After the tank is down, where the lines go in you'll see a large metal ring with lock tabs. Wire brush the ring clean, pry back the lock tabs, and with a hammer and a screwdriver or chisel drive the ring clock wise or counter clock wise until the ring comes loose. Wire brush the ring clean again and replace the gasket and reassemble the new tank and install. If you need more instruction you can buy a shop mannual for that car by Haynes at Auto Zone or Advance Auto for about $20.00 - $25.00 Good luck, not as complicated as it sounds. Dan

 

Reuse the pump, and install in new tank, you should be fine.

Now, I totally agree with a recommendation to replace the pump, since tank replacement is a chore, and dropping the tank a second time is a headache to replace the pump, but if money is tight, just swap the tank.

 

Use a brass punch instead of a screwdriver or chisel as they are usually made of steel. You do not want sparks near gasoline.