Technician Safety Information
WARNING: Adhere to the following procedures any time the fuel system is being worked on in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury:- Keep a dry chemical (Class B) fire extinguisher near the work area.
- Place a "CAUTION FLAMMABLE" sign in the work area.
- Work in a well-ventilated area. Do not smoke, and keep sparks and open flames away.
- Wear eye protection.
- Use caution when working near the catalytic converter to prevent the possibility of burns or fire. (The temperatures within the converter can exceed 537 degrees C (1000 degrees F).)
- Relieve the fuel system pressure prior to disconnecting fuel system components.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable except for tests where battery voltage is required.
- Use a suitable container to store or catch fuel.
- Do not replace fuel pipe with fuel hose.
- Plug all disconnected fuel line fittings and hoses.
- After making any fuel system repairs ALWAYS inspect for fuel leaks.
WARNING:
- Fuel vapor is hazardous. It can very easily ignite, causing serious injury and damage. Always keep sparks and flames away from fuel.
- Fuel in the fuel system is under high pressure when the engine is not running.
- Fuel line spills and leaks are dangerous.
- Fuel can ignite and cause serious injuries or death and damage.
- Fuel can also irritate skin and eyes. To prevent this, always complete the following "Fuel Line Safety Procedures".
FUEL LINE SAFETY PROCEDURES
Release Fuel Pressure Before Disconnecting Fuel Lines
- Start the engine.
- Disconnect the fuel pump relay connector.
- After the engine stalls, turn the ignition switch to OFF.
- Reconnect the fuel pump relay connector.
Avoid Leakage
- When disconnecting a fuel line hose, wrap a rag around it to protect against fuel leakage.
- Plug the hose after removal.
- Install hose clamps to secure the fuel pressure gauge connections.
PRIMING FUEL SYSTEM
After the fuel pressure has been released for repairs or inspection, the system must be primed to avoid excessive cranking when the engine is first started. Refer to Fuel System Priming.
Testing and Inspection