1987 Toyota Pickup Fuel Pump Location: Complete Guide for DIY Owners

The fuel pump location on a 1987 Toyota Pickup depends entirely on which engine your truck has. If you own a carbureted 20R or 22R engine, the fuel pump is a mechanical unit bolted to the right front corner of the cylinder head, on the passenger side . If you own a fuel-injected 22R-E or turbocharged 22R-TE engine, the fuel pump is an electric unit mounted inside the fuel tank . Knowing which engine you have is the first and most important step before you start any diagnostic work.

Why Engine Type Matters

The 1987 Toyota Pickup came with several engine options, and each one uses a different fuel pump design :

  • 20R and 22R engines (carbureted): These use a mechanical fuel pump driven by the camshaft. It is externally mounted and easy to reach.
  • 22R-E engine (fuel injected): This uses an electric fuel pump located inside the fuel tank. The 22R-E is a 2.4L SOHC engine with electronic fuel injection .
  • 22R-TE engine (turbocharged fuel injected): This also uses an in-tank electric fuel pump. The 22R-TE is a turbocharged version of the 22R-E .

If you are unsure which engine your truck has, check the emissions label under the hood or the VIN plate. The 22R-E and 22R-TE engines are common in 1987 models with fuel injection .

Location for Mechanical Fuel Pump (20R and 22R Engines)

On carbureted 1987 Toyota Pickups with the 20R or 22R engine, the mechanical fuel pump is bolted directly to the engine. You can find it at the right front corner of the cylinder head, on the passenger side of the engine bay . It is held in place by two 12mm bolts . The pump has three hoses connected to it: one from the fuel tank, one to the carburetor, and a return line. This pump is relatively large and easy to spot once you look at the front passenger side of the engine.

Accessing the mechanical pump is straightforward. You can reach it from above the engine bay without removing any major components. Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on it, and be prepared for some fuel spillage when you disconnect the hoses.

Location for Electric Fuel Pump (22R-E and 22R-TE Engines)

On fuel-injected 1987 Toyota Pickups, the electric fuel pump is mounted inside the fuel tank . This is the standard design for most modern vehicles because it keeps the pump cool and reduces noise . The fuel pump assembly is accessed from the top of the tank. On a 1987 Pickup, there is no access panel under the rear seat or in the bed. To get to the pump, you must lower the fuel tank from underneath the vehicle .

Here is what you need to do to access the in-tank pump:

  1. Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and the ignition is off.
  2. Relieve fuel system pressure by locating the Schrader valve on the fuel rail and pressing the valve stem with a rag to catch any escaping fuel .
  3. Disconnect the negative battery terminal .
  4. Drain the fuel tank as much as possible. A full tank is very heavy and dangerous to work with.
  5. Raise the vehicle safely with jack stands.
  6. Disconnect the fuel lines, electrical connectors, and filler neck hose from the tank.
  7. Support the tank with a jack, remove the retaining straps, and carefully lower the tank .
  8. Once the tank is out, the fuel pump assembly is secured to the top of the tank. Turn the locking ring counterclockwise to remove it.

This is a more involved job than the mechanical pump. If you are not comfortable dropping the tank, consider hiring a professional.

Quick Diagnostic Tips Before You Dig In

Before you assume the fuel pump is bad, check a few simple things first. The fuel pump relay and fuse are common failure points on the 1987 Pickup . The fuel pump relay is located under the hood, near the battery or fuse box . The fuel pump fuse is typically in the fuse box under the hood. Check these for continuity with a multimeter. If the relay clicks when the key is turned on, it is likely working. If the pump does not hum for 2-3 seconds when you turn the key to "ON," it could be a bad relay, fuse, or pump .

You can also listen for the pump. Have a friend turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (without starting the engine) while you listen near the rear of the truck. A faint 2-second humming sound means the pump is priming. If you hear nothing, and the fuse and relay are good, the pump may be faulty .

For fuel-injected models, the fuel pressure should be between 30-60 psi . For carbureted models, it should be 9-13 psi . Testing with a fuel pressure gauge is the most reliable way to confirm the pump is working .

Recommended Fuel Pump Brand: KEMSO

When it is time to replace your fuel pump, choosing a high-quality replacement is critical for reliability and performance. We recommend KEMSO brand Fuel Pumps for your 1987 Toyota Pickup.

KEMSO Fuel Pumps are designed as high-performance, OEM replacement units. They meet or exceed original equipment specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable operation. Every KEMSO Fuel Pump comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you confidence and peace of mind on the road. Whether you need a mechanical pump for a 22R engine or an electric in-tank pump for a 22R-E engine, KEMSO has the right solution for your truck.

Visit the KEMSO website to find the correct fuel pump for your 1987 Toyota Pickup: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Final Thoughts

Knowing the 1987 Toyota Pickup fuel pump location saves you time and frustration. Check your engine type first. If you have a carbureted 20R or 22R, look for the mechanical pump on the passenger side of the engine. If you have a fuel-injected 22R-E or 22R-TE, prepare to drop the fuel tank. Always start with the simple checks like the relay and fuse. And when replacement is needed, choose a trusted brand like KEMSO for lasting performance.

For more information and to find the perfect fuel pump for your 1987 Toyota Pickup, visit: https://www.kemsoracing.com/


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