1987 Chevy Truck Fuel Pump Location: Complete Guide to Finding and Replacing It

If you own a 1987 Chevy truck, the fuel pump location depends entirely on whether your truck has a fuel-injected engine or a carbureted engine. For 1987 models with fuel injection (Throttle Body Injection or TBI), the electric fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank. For 1987 models with a carburetor, the mechanical fuel pump is mounted on the front right side of the engine block, at the bottom near the passenger side. When you need to replace the pump, knowing which type you have saves hours of unnecessary work.

Why 1987 Is a "Crossover Year"

1987 marked a major transition year for Chevy trucks. General Motors was phasing out carburetors and introducing fuel injection across its truck lineup. This means you cannot assume your truck has one type or the other without checking first.

Fuel-injected models (TBI): These trucks have an electric fuel pump inside the fuel tank. The pump operates at higher pressure (9-13 PSI) and requires dropping the fuel tank to access it.

Carbureted models: These trucks use a mechanical fuel pump mounted on the engine block. The pump operates at lower pressure (5-7 PSI) and is much easier to access and replace.

The easiest way to tell which system you have is to look at the top of the engine. If you see a large metal "throttle body" unit with two fuel lines connected to it, you have a TBI system. If you see a carburetor with a mechanical fuel pump on the side of the engine block, you have a carbureted system.

Location of the Fuel Pump on Fuel-Injected 1987 Chevy Trucks

For TBI-equipped 1987 Chevy trucks, the electric fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank. The tank itself is mounted on the driver's side of the truck, underneath the bed.

Key points about the in-tank pump location:

  1. The pump is part of a fuel pump module. This module includes the pump, the fuel level sending unit, and the strainer sock. You cannot replace just the pump on most models - you replace the entire module.

  2. The pump sits at the bottom of the tank. It is submerged in fuel when the tank has fuel, which helps keep the pump cool and extends its life. Running the tank low on fuel frequently can cause the pump to overheat and fail prematurely.

  3. Accessing the pump requires removing the fuel tank. There is no access panel under the bed for most 1987 Chevy trucks. You must drop the tank from underneath the vehicle.

Location of the Fuel Pump on Carbureted 1987 Chevy Trucks

For carbureted 1987 Chevy trucks, the mechanical fuel pump is located on the front right side of the engine block. From the driver's seat, look to the lower front right side of the engine.

Key points about the mechanical pump location:

  1. The pump is bolted to the engine block. It uses a pushrod that goes into the engine to operate the pump arm. This pushrod moves up and down as the engine runs, creating suction to pull fuel from the tank.

  2. There is a special trick for replacing this pump. On the front of the engine, near the fuel pump, there is a short bolt. When you remove this bolt and install a longer bolt, it pinches the pushrod tight so you can remove the pump. After installing the new pump, you must put the short bolt back in. If you leave the long bolt in place, it will leak oil excessively.

  3. The pump is much easier to access than an in-tank pump. You can reach it from underneath the truck or from above with the right tools. No need to drop the fuel tank.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump on a 1987 Chevy Truck (In-Tank TBI Model)

If your 1987 Chevy truck has TBI and the fuel pump is in the tank, here is the step-by-step process for replacement.

Step 1: Relieve fuel system pressure. Remove the fuel pump relay from the fuse box, then start the engine and let it run until it stalls. This removes the pressure from the fuel lines. Disconnect the negative battery cable before proceeding.

Step 2: Drain the fuel tank. Use a suction hose to remove as much fuel as possible from the tank. This reduces the weight and makes the tank easier to handle.

Step 3: Raise the vehicle. Jack up the rear of the truck and place jack stands under the rear axle for safety. Block the front wheels.

Step 4: Remove the rock shield (if equipped). Some trucks have a metal shield under the fuel tank. Remove the bolts and take the shield off.

Step 5: Disconnect all hoses and lines. Loosen the clamps on the filler hose and vent hose at the top of the tank. Remove both hoses. Disconnect the evaporative (EVAP) hose at the canister. Disconnect the fuel supply and return lines using the appropriate fuel line disconnect tool.

Step 6: Support the fuel tank. Place a piece of plywood on top of a floor jack, then raise the jack up under the tank to support its weight.

Step 7: Remove the tank straps. Use a socket and ratchet to remove the bolts at the ends of the straps. Lower the tank carefully.

Step 8: Disconnect the electrical connector. Unplug the wiring harness from the fuel pump module on top of the tank.

Step 9: Remove the fuel pump assembly. Use a pair of channel locks to unscrew the retainer ring. If the ring is stuck, tap it counterclockwise with a brass punch and hammer to loosen it. Lift the fuel pump assembly out of the tank.

Step 10: Install the new pump. Clean the O-ring groove on the tank with a clean cloth. Install a new O-ring. Place the new fuel pump assembly into the tank, making sure the alignment tab is correctly positioned. Tighten the retainer ring clockwise with channel locks.

Step 11: Reinstall the tank. Raise the tank back into place, reconnect the electrical connector, reinstall the straps and bolts, and reconnect all hoses and lines. Tighten all clamps.

Step 12: Reconnect the battery and test. Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition on for 2 seconds, then off for 10 seconds. Repeat this 5-10 times to re-pressurize the fuel system. Check for leaks.

Alternative Method: Removing the Truck Bed

Some experienced mechanics prefer to remove the truck bed instead of dropping the fuel tank. This can be faster and easier on some models.

Steps for the bed removal method:

  1. Disconnect the rear tail light plugs under the rear of the truck.
  2. Remove all bolts attaching the bed to the frame.
  3. Remove the screws from the fuel filler neck.
  4. With three people - one at each fender well and one at the rear of the bed - lift the bed up and slide it back so the bed rests on the tires and rear bumper.
  5. Access the fuel pump lock ring on top of the tank and remove the pump.
  6. Reverse the process to reinstall the bed.

This method requires extra help but avoids the hassle of working under the vehicle with a heavy fuel tank.

Common Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump

Before you start replacing the fuel pump, make sure the pump is actually the problem. Common symptoms of a failing fuel pump include:

  • Engine stalling. The engine may stall unexpectedly, especially at highway speeds or when climbing hills.
  • Difficulty starting. The engine cranks but takes longer than normal to start.
  • Sputtering at high speeds. The engine may sputter or hesitate when you accelerate.
  • Reduced power output. The truck feels sluggish and lacks power during acceleration.
  • No fuel pressure at the fuel rail. If you check the Schrader valve on the fuel rail, there is little or no pressure.

Troubleshooting Before Replacement

Before you replace the fuel pump, check these items first:

Check the fuel pump fuse. The fuse is located in the under-hood fuse box. A blown fuse is an easy fix.

Check the fuel pump relay. The relay is also in the under-hood fuse box. Use a test light or multimeter to check for continuity across the relay contacts when the ignition is turned on.

Check the wiring harness. Inspect the wiring from under the dash to the fuel pump for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.

Check for current at the pump. Use a test light or multimeter to see if there is voltage reaching the fuel pump when the ignition is turned on.

Tools You Will Need

To replace the fuel pump on a 1987 Chevy truck, gather these tools:

  • Suction hose or siphoning kit
  • Socket and ratchet set
  • Wrench set
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Brass punch and hammer
  • Channel locks or locking pliers
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Fuel line disconnect tool
  • Piece of plywood
  • Shop towels and safety glasses
  • Wire brush (for cleaning battery terminals)
  • Penetrating oil (for rusty bolts)

Recommended Fuel Pump

KEMSO Fuel Pump

When it comes time to replace the fuel pump on your 1987 Chevy truck, choosing a reliable brand makes all the difference. KEMSO offers high-performance fuel pumps that are designed as OEM replacements for a wide range of vehicles. Their pumps are built to meet or exceed factory specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and proper operation. Each KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected. Whether you are replacing a pump on a classic Chevy truck or any other vehicle, KEMSO provides quality you can trust.

Visit KEMSO at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Final Thoughts

Knowing the 1987 Chevy truck fuel pump location is the first step to a successful replacement. If your truck has TBI, the pump is in the fuel tank and requires dropping the tank or removing the bed. If your truck has a carburetor, the pump is on the engine block and is much easier to replace. Always check the fuse, relay, and wiring before condemning the pump. With the right tools and a little patience, you can replace the fuel pump yourself and save hundreds of dollars in labor costs.

For a reliable replacement fuel pump that will last, check out KEMSO's product line at https://www.kemsoracing.com/.


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