How to Change the Fuel Pump on a Mercury Mountaineer

Over time you may notice your fuel pump deteriorating on your Mercury Mountaineer. Should you notice this happening, it is important that you replace the fuel pump as soon as possible. Luckily, with the proper tools this task won’t require taking your vehicle to a mechanic.

What You'll Need:

• Battery terminal wrench


• Safety glasses


• Jack


• 2 wheel chocks


• 2 heavy duty jack stands


• One-foot length of 2 by 4


• Socket set


• Flathead screwdriver


• Rubber mallet


• Replacement fuel pump


• Rags

1. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery terminal using your battery terminal wrench.


2. Place the wheel chocks at the rear and front of the front tire on the driver’s side.


3. Jack the rear of the Mercury up and place on jack stands. Make sure to position the jack stands so they won’t interfere with the fuel tank.


4. Position the jack under the fuel tank using the piece of 2-by-4 as a buffer between the tank and the jack head.


5. Remove the bolts attached to the fuel tank strap with your socket set.


6. Lower the jack slightly until you can reach under the vehicle and disconnect the wiring harness which attaches the fuel pump and the fuel vapor return lines.


7. Move the fuel tank down and disconnect the filler neck.


8. Remove the fuel tank from the Mercury and place nearby on the ground.


9. Wrap a rag around the top of your screwdriver and place the screwdriver’s tip on the retaining ring of the fuel pump.


10. Use your rubber mallet to slightly tap the screwdriver to turn the retaining ring until the fuel pump is released.


11. Remove the fuel pump from the fuel tank and set aside.


12. Install the new fuel pump in the fuel tank.


13. Replace the retaining ring.


14. Place the fuel tank in place and reconnect the filler neck.


15. Lift the tank higher up to reconnect the wiring harness and fuel vapor return lines.


16. Lift the fuel tank into its final position and re-bolt the retaining straps.


17. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.


18. Reconnect the battery cable to the negative terminal.


19. Check the vehicle for any fuel leaks.


20. Additional Information


21. Before beginning work on the Mercury, run the car until it is nearly out of fuel.