Fuel System Cleaning

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWDSECTION Fuel System Cleaning
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Chevrolet Corvette. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tools Required

    CAUTION: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Cautions and Notices.
  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnect/Connect Procedure in Engine Electrical.
  2. Relieve the fuel system pressure. Refer to the Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure .
  3. Drain the fuel tanks. Refer to Fuel Tank Draining Procedure .
  4. Remove the fuel tanks. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement (Right)  or Fuel Tank Replacement (Left) .
  5. Remove the fuel sender assemblies. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement (RH)  or Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement (LH) .
  6. Inspect the left fuel sender strainer. Replace a contaminated strainer for the left fuel sender only, and inspect the fuel pump.
  7. Inspect the left fuel sender fuel pump inlet for debris. Replace the left fuel sender assembly if you find debris in the fuel pump inlet.
  8. Inspect the right fuel sender strainers. Replace the right fuel sender assembly if you find a contaminated strainer. The right fuel sender strainers are not serviced separately.
  9. IMPORTANT: When flushing the fuel tanks, handle the fuel and water mixture as a hazardous material. Handle the fuel and water mixture in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
  10. Flush the fuel tanks with hot water.
  11. Pour the water out of the fuel sender assembly openings. Rock the tanks to be sure that removal of the water from the tanks is complete.
  12. Install the fuel sender assemblies. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement (RH)  or Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement (LH) .
  13. Install the fuel tanks. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement (Right)  or Fuel Tank Replacement (Left) .
  14. Refill the fuel system.
  15. Install the fuel filler cap.
  16. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnect/Connect Procedure in Engine Electrical.
  17. Perform the following procedure in order to inspect for leaks:
    1. Turn the ignition switch ON for 2 seconds.
    2. Turn the ignition switch OFF for 10 seconds.
    3. Turn the ignition switch ON.
    4. Inspect for fuel leaks.
  18. Program the transmitters. Refer to Transmitter Programming in Keyless Entry.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.