1987 Dodge Ram 50 Fuel Pump Location: Complete Guide to Finding and Replacing It
The fuel pump on a 1987 Dodge Ram 50 is located inside the fuel tank. This is an in-tank electric pump, not a mechanical pump mounted on the engine. The pump sits at the top of the fuel tank and is combined with the fuel sending unit assembly. To access it, you need to remove a service plate on top of the tank, which is typically reached from under the truck bed or through a hatch behind the rear seat, depending on your cab and bed configuration. This guide walks you through exactly where to find it, how to confirm it's failing, and the steps to replace it.
Why the Fuel Pump Is Inside the Tank
The 1987 Dodge Ram 50 (which is the US-market version of the Mitsubishi Mighty Max) uses an electric fuel pump mounted inside the fuel tank rather than a pump in the engine bay. This is a common design for vehicles built after the 1980s. Putting the pump inside the tank helps protect it from heat, reduces vapor lock problems, and provides stable fuel pressure by drawing fuel directly from the tank. When you turn the ignition on, the pump primes and delivers fuel through the supply line to the engine. The pump is paired with the sending unit, which also carries the fuel gauge sender.
Where to Find the Access Point on Your 1987 Ram 50
Because the Ram 50 was offered with different cab and bed configurations, the exact access point to the fuel pump can vary. Here is what to look for:
1. Under the Truck Bed (Most Common)
On most 1987 Ram 50 pickups, the fuel pump is accessed through a removable plate on the top of the fuel tank. The tank is mounted under the rear portion of the vehicle. In many configurations, you can reach this plate by looking under the truck bed. You may need to remove the bed or work from underneath the vehicle to get to the access cover.
2. Behind the Rear Seat (Less Common on This Model)
Some configurations have a hatch behind the rear seat that allows access to the top of the fuel tank. On the Ram 50, this is less common than the bed-floor access, but it is worth checking if you have a short cab or extended cab model. If you see a metal or plastic panel in the floor behind the seat, that is likely your access point.
3. Dropping the Fuel Tank
If you cannot find an access panel, the most reliable method is to drop the fuel tank. This is the standard procedure for many Dodge Ram pickups. The tank is held in place by straps underneath the rear of the truck. You will need to support the tank with a jack, remove the straps, and lower it enough to access the top of the pump assembly.
How to Tell If Your Fuel Pump Is Bad
Before you start digging into the tank, confirm that the fuel pump is actually the problem. Here are the most common symptoms of a failing fuel pump on a 1987 Dodge Ram 50:
1. Engine Cranks But Won't Start
If the engine turns over but refuses to fire, the fuel pump may not be delivering fuel. This is the most common sign of pump failure.
2. Stalling or Loss of Power
If the truck stalls unexpectedly, especially when driving uphill or under load, or if it loses power while accelerating, the fuel pump could be failing.
3. Whining Noise from the Fuel Tank
A loud whining or humming sound coming from the rear of the vehicle when the engine is running is a classic sign of a failing fuel pump. Normally, the pump makes a quiet hum for a few seconds when you first turn the key on. If it is loud or continuous, the pump is wearing out.
4. Difficulty Starting After the Truck Sits
If the engine is hard to start after it has been sitting for a while, the fuel pump may be losing its prime. This happens when the check valve inside the pump fails, allowing fuel to drain back into the tank.
Quick Diagnostic Test:
Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (do not start the engine). Listen carefully near the fuel tank. You should hear a brief humming sound for about 2-3 seconds. That is the fuel pump priming the system. If you hear nothing, the pump is likely not working.
Tools and Parts You Will Need
Before starting the job, gather the following items:
- New fuel pump module (make sure it fits your 1987 Ram 50 with the 2.0L or 2.6L engine)
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket wrench set
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Fuel line disconnect tool (if needed)
- Large pliers or a hammer and drift (for the lock ring)
- Acetone or lacquer thinner (for cleaning)
- New O-ring or gasket
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Fire extinguisher (keep nearby)
Step-by-Step Fuel Pump Replacement
Step 1: Relieve Fuel System Pressure
Open the fuel filler cap to relieve pressure in the tank. Remove the fuel pump relay from the fuse box (located under the hood or dashboard). Crank the engine for several seconds until it stalls or fails to start. This releases the pressure in the fuel lines.
Step 2: Disconnect the Battery
Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any electrical sparks while working near fuel.
Step 3: Raise and Support the Vehicle
Raise the rear end of the truck and support it securely on jack stands. If you have a long bed configuration, you may also need to remove the left rear wheel for better access.
Step 4: Drain the Fuel Tank
Siphon or drain as much fuel as possible from the tank. A full tank is very heavy and dangerous to work with. Use a hand pump or siphon hose to remove the fuel into an approved container.
Step 5: Disconnect Fuel Lines and Electrical Connectors
Locate the fuel lines and vapor lines connected to the tank. Use a screwdriver to loosen the clamps and disconnect the hoses from the metal pipes. Also, disconnect the electrical connector for the fuel pump and sending unit.
Step 6: Support and Lower the Tank
Place a transmission jack or a floor jack with a block of wood under the fuel tank to support it. Remove the nuts on the tank straps using a wrench. Slowly lower the jack until the tank is low enough to access the top of the pump assembly.
Step 7: Remove the Fuel Pump Module
Clean the top of the tank around the pump module with acetone or lacquer thinner to prevent dirt from falling into the tank. Use a large pair of pliers or a hammer and drift to turn the lock ring counterclockwise. Once the ring is loose, unscrew it and lift the fuel pump module carefully out of the tank.
Step 8: Install the New Fuel Pump
Place the new fuel pump module into the tank. Make sure the alignment arrow on the module lines up with the hash marks on the top of the tank. The fuel pipe on the filter/pressure regulator should point toward the driver's side of the truck. Reattach the lock ring and tighten it securely.
Step 9: Reinstall the Tank
Raise the tank back into position and reconnect the fuel lines, vapor lines, and electrical connector. Reinstall the tank straps and tighten the nuts. Lower the truck and reconnect the negative battery cable.
Step 10: Prime the System and Check for Leaks
Reinstall the fuel pump relay. Turn the ignition switch to the "ON" position for two seconds, then turn it off for five seconds. Repeat this several times to re-pressurize the fuel system. Start the engine and check for any fuel leaks around the tank and pump area.
Recommended Fuel Pump: KEMSO Performance
When it comes time to replace the fuel pump on your 1987 Dodge Ram 50, you want a reliable, high-quality part that will last. KEMSO Racing offers high-performance fuel pumps that are OEM replacements, meaning they fit perfectly and function just like the original part or better. Every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can install it with confidence knowing it is backed by the manufacturer. Whether you are restoring your Ram 50 or just keeping it on the road, KEMSO pumps deliver the performance and durability you need.
Visit the KEMSO website to find the right fuel pump for your vehicle: https://www.kemsoracing.com/
Final Thoughts
The 1987 Dodge Ram 50 fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and accessing it requires either removing a service plate or dropping the tank. If you are experiencing symptoms like hard starting, stalling, or a whining noise from the rear of the truck, the fuel pump is likely the culprit. Always follow safety precautions when working with fuel systems, and if you are not comfortable doing the job yourself, consult a professional mechanic. For a reliable replacement, check out the fuel pump options available at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ and get your Ram 50 back on the road with confidence.