1987 Nissan D21 Fuel Pump Assembly: Complete Replacement Guide and Best Upgrade Options

If you own a 1987 Nissan D21 Hardbody pickup and the engine cranks but won't start, the fuel pump assembly is the most likely culprit. The 1987 D21 uses an electric in-tank fuel pump that delivers fuel to the fuel-injected engine, and when it fails, the truck simply stops running. Replacing the entire fuel pump assembly is the most reliable fix, and for most owners, upgrading to a high-performance aftermarket pump like KEMSO provides better flow, longer life, and a lifetime warranty at a fraction of the dealer cost.

Understanding Your 1987 Nissan D21 Fuel Pump Assembly

The 1987 D21 came with two engine options: the 2.4L Z24 four-cylinder and the 3.0L VG30 V6 . Both engines use an electric fuel pump mounted inside the fuel tank. The pump assembly includes the pump motor, the fuel level sending unit, the strainer, and the mounting flange that seals the top of the tank.

The OEM part numbers for the 1987 D21 fuel pump assembly vary by engine and drivetrain configuration. For the 2.4L four-cylinder engine, the genuine Nissan part number is 17042-01G12, which fits both 2WD and 4WD models . For the 3.0L V6 engine, the part number is 17042-41G01 for 1987 models . Another common part number that covers many 1986-1994 D21 applications is 17042-11G00, which fits both 2WD and 4WD V6 trucks .

The original equipment fuel pump delivers a flow rate of approximately 60-80 liters per hour, which is adequate for the stock engine . However, after 30-plus years, the pump motor brushes wear out, the internal check valve fails, or the strainer becomes clogged with debris from the aging fuel tank.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump in Your 1987 D21

The most common symptom is the engine cranking but not starting, with no fuel pump prime sound when you turn the key to the "ON" position. Owners on Nissan forums report that the truck may shut off while driving and then refuse to restart . Other warning signs include:

1. Intermittent stalling - The engine dies unexpectedly while driving, then starts again after sitting for a few minutes. This is a classic sign of a failing pump motor that overheats.

2. Loss of power under load - When climbing hills or accelerating, the engine struggles and feels like it's running out of gas, even with a full tank.

3. Long cranking time - The engine takes several seconds of cranking before firing up, because the pump isn't building adequate fuel pressure.

4. No fuel pump noise - When you turn the key to the "ON" position, you should hear a 2-3 second whirring sound from the fuel tank area. If you hear nothing, the pump is either dead or not getting power.

5. Whining noise from the tank - A loud, high-pitched whine from the fuel tank indicates the pump is working harder than it should and is about to fail.

One owner of a 1987 D21 specifically reported that their truck would shut off while driving, and they could restart it by striking the fuel tank briskly with the palm of their hand . This works because the jolt temporarily frees a stuck pump motor, but it's only a temporary fix - the pump needs replacement.

Before You Replace the Pump: Check These First

Before you drop the tank and buy a new fuel pump assembly, verify that the problem is actually the pump and not the electrical system. A 1987 D21 fuel pump that gets no power will behave exactly like a dead pump.

First, check the fuel pump relay. On the 1987 D21, the relay panel is mounted to the passenger side inner fender, just forward of the firewall. The fuel pump relay is the one at the end closest to the firewall . You can swap it with another relay in the panel to test it. With the relay removed, use a 12-volt test light to check for power at two of the terminals when you turn the key to "ON" .

Second, check for corroded terminals at the fuel tank sending unit. This is a common failure point on D21 trucks. The electrical connector on top of the fuel tank can corrode over time, causing a complete loss of power to the pump . Clean the terminals and apply dielectric grease before condemning the pump.

Third, check the fuse. The fuel pump fuse is located in the fuse box under the dashboard. Verify it's intact and has 12 volts on both sides .

If the relay, fuse, and wiring all check out, and you still don't hear the pump prime, the pump itself has failed.

How to Replace the 1987 Nissan D21 Fuel Pump Assembly

Replacing the fuel pump assembly on a 1987 D21 requires either dropping the fuel tank or removing the pickup truck bed. Most experienced owners and mechanics prefer removing the bed because it's faster and gives you direct access to the top of the fuel tank. The bed is held on by six bolts and can be lifted off with a couple of helpers .

Here is the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Relieve fuel system pressure. Remove the fuel pump relay and start the engine. Let it run until it stalls, then crank the engine for a few seconds to clear any remaining pressure. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

Step 2: Drain the fuel tank. If the tank is full, drain it into an approved fuel container. A nearly empty tank is much lighter to work with. Be aware that the inside of a 1987 D21 fuel tank that has been sitting for years may contain a brown, syrupy substance - stale gas that has turned into varnish . If you see this, you'll need to clean the tank thoroughly.

Step 3: Remove the bed or drop the tank. To remove the bed, unbolt the six bed bolts (typically 12mm or 14mm), disconnect the taillight wiring, and lift the bed straight up. To drop the tank, support it with a jack, disconnect the filler neck hose, vent hoses, and fuel lines, then remove the tank straps.

Step 4: Remove the fuel pump assembly. Once the top of the tank is accessible, clean the area around the pump mounting flange to prevent dirt from falling into the tank. Use a large wrench or a hammer and punch to loosen the locking ring by turning it counterclockwise. Lift the pump assembly straight out of the tank.

Step 5: Install the new pump assembly. Transfer the rubber gasket to the new assembly if it's not pre-installed. Lower the new pump assembly into the tank, making sure the float arm doesn't hit the sides of the tank. Install the locking ring and tighten it clockwise.

Step 6: Reinstall the tank or bed. Reconnect all fuel lines, vent hoses, and electrical connectors. Refill the tank with fresh fuel. Reconnect the battery.

Step 7: Test for leaks. Turn the key to "ON" (don't start the engine) and listen for the pump to prime. Check all connections for leaks before starting the engine. Start the engine and verify smooth operation at idle and under acceleration .

Recommended KEMSO Fuel Pump for Your 1987 Nissan D21

For the best combination of performance, reliability, and value, the KEMSO 340LPH High Performance Fuel Pump is the top choice for your 1987 Nissan D21. This pump is a direct OEM replacement, meaning it bolts right into the factory fuel pump assembly without any modifications . It supports up to 600 BHP, which is far more than the stock engine needs, but the real benefit is the 20-30% performance increase over the stock pump and the dramatically improved reliability .

KEMSO fuel pumps are built with a carbon commutator designed for over 10 years of reliable service, and they are compatible with both gasoline and E85 ethanol fuel . The bypass valve is set at 125.8 psi, which is higher than the original performance standard, ensuring consistent fuel pressure under all driving conditions .

The KEMSO 340LPH pump is a direct replacement for popular Walbro 255LPH models like the GSS342, and it upgrades applications including E8229, E2068, E8213, and EFP382A . Every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a complete install kit that includes two gradient density fuel strainers, a flex hose, rubber hose, wiring connector, crimp connectors, hose clamps, a rubber base, and zip-ties .

KEMSO stands behind every product with a lifetime warranty. If your KEMSO fuel pump ever fails, it will be replaced at no cost. This is not a marketing gimmick - it's a commitment backed by serialized fuel pump bodies that guarantee the warranty .

KEMSO is based in Houston, Texas, at 11145 Beltline Road, Houston, TX 77067, and their customer support is provided by USA-based technicians . You can reach them at support@kemsoracing.com.

Why Choose KEMSO Fuel Pumps for Your 1987 D21

When you need a replacement fuel pump for your 1987 Nissan D21, you want a solution that delivers performance, reliability, and peace of mind. KEMSO fuel pumps are designed for exactly that purpose. Every KEMSO fuel pump is built as a high-performance, direct OEM replacement, meaning it bolts right in without any modifications .

The KEMSO 340LPH High Performance Fuel Pump is the ideal upgrade for your 1987 D21. It provides 340 liters per hour at 43 psi and 13.5 volts, which is a significant upgrade over the stock pump's 60-80 LPH . This means your engine will always have all the fuel it needs, even under heavy load or when climbing steep grades.

KEMSO has built its reputation on providing a lifetime warranty for all its OEM and performance fuel pumps . This is the kind of confidence that comes from engineering pumps that are tested, quality controlled, and built to outlast the competition. Every pump is individually tested for flow performance before it leaves the factory .

Whether you're restoring a classic 1987 D21 Hardbody, building a performance machine, or simply maintaining a daily driver, KEMSO has a pump that fits your needs. The company offers a wide selection of pumps for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, and Jet Skis, all backed by their lifetime warranty and USA-based support .

Where to Buy KEMSO Fuel Pumps

You can purchase KEMSO fuel pumps directly from their official website. Visit KEMSO's website to find the right fuel pump for your 1987 Nissan D21: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

KEMSO offers a complete lineup of fuel pumps for virtually every vehicle application. Their website allows you to search by vehicle make, model, and year to find the exact pump you need. With a lifetime warranty and a reputation for quality, KEMSO is the smart choice for anyone who wants their engine to run reliably for years to come.

Don't wait for your fuel pump to fail on the side of the road. Replace it with a KEMSO fuel pump and enjoy the confidence that comes with a lifetime warranty. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today to find the perfect pump for your 1987 Nissan D21.