1987 Chevy Truck Fuel Pump Fuse Location: A Complete Guide for Troubleshooting

If you own a 1987 Chevy truck and are experiencing fuel delivery issues, the most common and easiest fix is often a blown fuel pump fuse. The fuel pump fuse for a 1987 Chevy truck is typically located in the under-hood fuse box, often near the battery or on the driver's side fender. However, some models also have a secondary fuse inside the cabin, under the dashboard on the driver's side. This guide will walk you through the exact locations, how to identify the correct fuse, and steps to troubleshoot the problem.

1. Understanding the Fuel Pump System in Your 1987 Chevy Truck

The fuel pump in your 1987 Chevy truck is an electric pump located inside the fuel tank. It requires a steady flow of electricity to operate, which is controlled by several components:

  • Fuel Pump Relay:
    This relay acts as a switch. When you turn the ignition key, the Engine Control Module (ECM) sends a signal to the relay, which then sends power to the fuel pump. This relay is usually located in the engine compartment, mounted on the firewall or near the fuse box.
  • Fuel Pump Fuse:
    This is a safety device that protects the fuel pump circuit from electrical overloads. If too much current flows through, the fuse blows, cutting off power to the pump. This is the first thing you should check.
  • ECM B Fuse:
    Many 1987 Chevy trucks have a separate fuse labeled "ECM B" (Engine Control Module B) that supplies power to the fuel pump relay. If this fuse is blown, the pump will not receive power.
  • Oil Pressure Switch:
    This is a backup system. If the fuel pump relay fails, the oil pressure switch will provide power to the pump once the engine builds up enough oil pressure (usually around 4 PSI). This is why a truck with a bad relay may start after extended cranking.

2. Where to Find the Fuel Pump Fuse

The exact location can vary slightly depending on the specific model of your 1987 Chevy truck (e.g., C10, K10, S10, Silverado, R20). Here are the most common locations:

A. Under the Hood Fuse Box

This is the primary location for most 1987 Chevy trucks.

  • Look for a black plastic box near the battery or on the driver's side fender.
  • Check the firewall: In some models, the fuse box is mounted on the firewall, near the brake master cylinder or blower motor. It may be covered by a black plastic cover.
  • Open the lid: The inside of the fuse box cover usually has a diagram that labels each fuse and relay. Look for labels like "Fuel Pump," "ECM B," or "ECM 1."

B. Inside the Cabin Fuse Box

A secondary fuse box is located under the dashboard on the driver's side.

  • For 1981-1987 models: The fuse box is usually mounted horizontally on the lower kick panel, near the parking brake pedal assembly.
  • For 1973-1980 models: The fuse box is located vertically above the hood release handle, left of the steering column.
  • Look for a label: The fuse box lid will have a diagram. The fuse related to the fuel pump is often labeled "ECM B" or "ECM 1."

3. How to Check and Replace the Fuse

Once you have located the fuse box, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the ignition and remove the key.
  2. Locate the correct fuse.
    • On the under-hood diagram, find the fuse labeled "Fuel Pump" or "ECM B."
    • On the cabin fuse diagram, look for "ECM B" (15A) or "ECM 1" (10A).
  3. Visually inspect the fuse.
    • Pull the fuse out using a fuse puller or a pair of pliers.
    • Look for a broken wire inside the clear plastic casing. If the metal strip is broken, the fuse is blown.
  4. Test the fuse with a multimeter.
    • Set the multimeter to continuity mode.
    • Touch the probes to the two metal prongs on the top of the fuse. If you hear a beep, the fuse is good. If not, it is blown.
  5. Replace the fuse.
    • Use a fuse with the exact same amperage rating (e.g., 15A or 10A). Never use a higher amperage fuse, as this can cause wiring damage or a fire.

4. Troubleshooting: Why the Fuse Keeps Blowing

If you replace the fuse and it blows again immediately, there is a short circuit or a problem with a component. Here are the most common causes:

  • A faulty fuel pump: A defective fuel pump motor can draw too much current, causing the fuse to blow. This is a common issue on these older trucks.
  • A bad fuel pump relay: A stuck or shorted relay can send constant power to the pump, leading to an overload.
  • Corroded wiring or connectors: Check the wiring harness running from the fuse box to the fuel tank. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections, especially at the ground point on the frame rail.
  • A short to ground: A wire may be rubbing against the chassis or engine, causing a direct short to ground.

5. Other Common Symptoms of a Blown Fuel Pump Fuse

If the fuse is blown, you will likely experience one or more of the following:

  • Engine will not start: The fuel pump cannot deliver fuel to the engine.
  • No noise from the fuel pump: When you turn the key to the "ON" position (but not start), you should hear the fuel pump prime for a few seconds. If you hear nothing, the fuse or relay may be bad.
  • Engine stalls or sputters: The pump may lose power intermittently, causing the engine to die.
  • Hard starting: The engine may crank for a long time before starting, especially if the fuel pump relay is bad but the oil pressure switch is working.

6. Upgrading Your Fuel Pump: KEMSO Brand Recommendation

When replacing your 1987 Chevy truck's fuel pump, you need a reliable, high-performance part that will last. We recommend choosing a KEMSO Fuel Pump.

KEMSO Fuel Pumps are designed as OEM Replacement parts, ensuring a perfect fit and direct plug-and-play installation for your 1987 Chevy truck. They are built with high-performance materials to handle the demands of daily driving and heavy use. Plus, every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a Lifetime Warranty, giving you peace of mind that your truck's fuel system is protected for years to come.

To upgrade your fuel pump with a KEMSO product, visit the official website: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Conclusion

Finding the fuel pump fuse on your 1987 Chevy truck is the first step in diagnosing a no-start or fuel delivery problem. Start by checking the under-hood fuse box near the battery, and then check the cabin fuse box under the dashboard. Remember that the fuse is often labeled "ECM B" or "Fuel Pump." By following the troubleshooting steps in this guide, you can quickly identify the issue and get your classic Chevy back on the road.

For the best replacement fuel pump, trust KEMSO. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to find the perfect high-performance, OEM replacement fuel pump with a lifetime warranty for your 1987 Chevy truck.


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