Re: [FSJeeps] Fuel Problems

["Jim Blair" <carnuck@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

A: Here is the gas tank "sock" that people have trouble with on many AMCs 
(which is why I'm including a lot of other lists in this reply) 
http://www.bjsoffroad.com/cartgenie/prodInfo.asp?pid=310&cid=5 available at 
http://www.bjsoffroad.com along with new sending units and other FSJ items 
of interest. (I have no stock in the company! I just shop there. <G>)
   Before ripping the sender out to check the sock (MTBE that is in most 
state's gasoline because of CARB and EPA but it's poisoning the groundwater 
and turning fuel hoses and the sock in the tank to mushy messes or splitting 
them open), I would first attempt to put vacuum to the fuel line with a hand 
pump (and the other end plugged of course!) to see if it holds vacuum. If it 
doesn't, the line has a small fracture somewhere or a rust hole (I pulled 3 
from other FSJs that looked like piccolos!) If that passes inspection, then 
open the tank top and check the sender lines and sock. (I took the sock off 
mine and replaced it with a see thru filter just before my fuel pump where I 
have easy access. The problem with that is any large debris in the tank 
clogs the end of the steel line. I recently had what looked like a clump of 
pet hair in my external filter! There is also the possibility of breaking 
the glass filter when offroading, but this is my highway tow rig.)


Jen,
     You are correct, my 89 has a mechanical fuel  pump.  When the gas
stopped flowing that was the first thing I suspected  and replaced it.  Also 
put new
hoses on.  I lifted the back seat,  found the plate and checked things out.
The hoses seem to be in good  condition.  I disconnected them both at the 
tank
end and at the front  before I disconnect the hoses at the end of the metal
hose/tubes to the rear of  the fuel pump.  I blew air through both hoses and
had someone check the  other end.  Air flowed through both so there was no
obstruction in the  lines from the fuel tank forward.  New rubber hoses from 
metal
lines to new  fuel pump, and from from fuel pump to new fuel filter, and to
carb.  No gas  flowing.
     I have read in several places about a "sock" in  the tank.  Haven't a
clue about this.  Not bad gas as I have filled  the Jeep and my other car at 
the
same station at the same time.
Where is the fuel pump relay?  I thought this was a mechanical  system?
There are two wires that go into the fuel tank but assumed that  these were 
for
the fuel gauge.  There are no wires that go to the fuel  pump.
     Appreciate any advice on how to proceed from  here.  I think I am way
passed my ability.  Only thought now is the  "Shop" and that will kill the
budget for a long time.  This is the best  vehicle we have ever had and the 
kids
love it.  I really want to get it  running and dependable and head for the
mountains and enjoy riding in  them.  Hope you can help.
Malcolm