1993 Honda Del Sol Fuel Pump Location: Complete Guide for Owners and DIY Mechanics

The fuel pump on a 1993 Honda Del Sol is located inside the fuel tank, which sits at the rear of the vehicle beneath the trunk area. To access the fuel pump, you do not need to drop the fuel tank. Instead, you can reach it through an access panel located under the rear seat cushion inside the passenger cabin. This makes the replacement job significantly easier compared to many other vehicles from the same era. The Genuine Honda part number for the fuel pump assembly is 17040-SR2-A31, which replaces the earlier part number 17040-SR2-A30 . This guide will walk you through exactly where to find the pump, how to access it, and what to expect during replacement.

Why Knowing the Fuel Pump Location Matters

Understanding the fuel pump location on your 1993 Honda Del Sol is the first step toward diagnosing fuel delivery issues and performing a successful replacement. The fuel pump is a critical component that supplies pressurized gasoline to the fuel injectors, and when it fails, your car may not start, may stall unexpectedly, or may show a check engine light . Unlike some vehicles where the fuel tank must be removed entirely, the Del Sol's design allows for relatively straightforward access through the cabin interior.

The fuel pump assembly is mounted on top of the fuel tank, and the entire unit—including the pump, strainer, and electrical connector—can be lifted out once the access cover is removed . This design saves you both time and money if you are doing the job yourself.

Step-by-Step Guide to Locating and Accessing the Fuel Pump

1. Get to the rear seat area. The fuel pump access panel is located beneath the rear seat cushion. Remove the rear seat cushion by pulling it upward at the front edge; it is held in place by clips and should pop out without tools. Once the seat cushion is removed, you will see a metal or plastic cover plate on the floor of the cabin.

2. Remove the access cover. The cover plate is secured by several bolts or screws. Use a socket wrench or screwdriver to remove them. Set the cover aside, and you will now see the top of the fuel pump assembly sitting on the fuel tank.

3. Disconnect the battery. Before doing anything with the fuel system, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This is a critical safety step to prevent any sparks or electrical shorts while working near fuel.

4. Relieve fuel system pressure. Remove the fuel filler cap to relieve pressure in the tank. You can also relieve system pressure by locating the fuel pump fuse or relay and running the engine until it stalls, but the simpler method is to just remove the cap and let the pressure dissipate .

5. Disconnect the electrical connector and fuel lines. At the top of the pump assembly, you will see an electrical connector and two fuel lines (supply and return). Unplug the electrical connector by lifting the tab. Use a wrench or line disconnect tool to detach the fuel lines. Be prepared for a small amount of fuel spillage; have a rag or container ready.

6. Remove the retaining ring or nuts. The fuel pump assembly is held in place by a retaining ring or several nuts. Loosen and remove them, then carefully lift the pump assembly out of the tank. Angle it slightly as you lift to avoid damaging the pump strainer or the inside of the tank .

Common Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump on a 1993 Honda Del Sol

If you are trying to locate the fuel pump because you suspect it is failing, here are the most common symptoms to watch for:

  • Engine cranks but will not start. This is the most obvious sign. If the pump is not delivering fuel, the engine will crank but never fire up .
  • Car stalls unexpectedly. A failing pump may intermittently stop working, causing the engine to stall while driving. This is dangerous and should be addressed immediately.
  • Whirring or humming noise from the rear of the car. A healthy fuel pump is quiet. If you hear a loud whirring or humming sound coming from the fuel tank area, the pump is likely about to fail .
  • Check engine light comes on. The ECU may detect low fuel pressure and trigger the check engine light. This can happen gradually as the pump wears out.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Before Replacement

Before you commit to replacing the fuel pump, you should test it to confirm it is the source of the problem. Here is a simple test you can perform:

Listen for the pump. Have an assistant turn the ignition key to the ON position (do not start the engine). You should hear a brief whirring sound from the rear of the car for about two seconds as the pump primes the system. If you hear nothing, the pump may be dead, or there could be an issue with the main relay or wiring .

Check fuel pressure. If you have a fuel pressure gauge, attach it to the service fitting on the fuel filter or fuel rail. Start the engine and check the pressure. For the 1993 Honda Del Sol, the fuel pressure should be within the range of 38 to 46 psi at idle. If the pressure is low or zero, the pump is likely faulty .

Test the electrical supply. If the pump does not run, you can check for voltage at the pump's electrical connector. Use a multimeter to see if 12 volts is present when the ignition is turned ON. If voltage is present but the pump does not run, the pump itself is bad. If no voltage is present, the issue may be with the fuel pump relay or wiring .

Genuine OEM vs. Aftermarket Fuel Pump Options

When it comes to replacing the fuel pump on your 1993 Honda Del Sol, you have several options. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part number is 17040-SR2-A31, which is a direct replacement for the earlier 17040-SR2-A30 . This genuine Honda part is designed to fit perfectly and meet factory specifications. However, Honda has discontinued this part, so finding a brand-new OEM unit may be difficult .

Aftermarket options are widely available and often more affordable. Here are some popular choices:

  • Walbro 255 LPH. This is a very popular high-flow pump that supports up to about 600 horsepower. It is a direct-fit option for the Del Sol and includes an installation kit. It is available in 190 LPH, 255 LPH, and 255 LPH-HP variants .
  • Hybrid Racing 335 LPH. This pump flows 335 liters per hour at 40 psi and is E85 compatible. It includes all necessary parts for a direct installation on the Del Sol .
  • Fuel Pump Factory 265 LPH. This street series pump supports over 600 horsepower and is E85 compatible. It has a compact 65mm body for OE fitment .
  • Bosch 69423. This replacement pump is compatible with the D16Z6 engine and has been tested to meet ISO 4010 standards. It offers improved fuel pulsation attenuation compared to the original pump .

Recommended Pump: KEMSO Fuel Pump for Honda Civic Del Sol 1993-1997

For owners looking for a reliable, high-performance, and cost-effective replacement, we strongly recommend the KEMSO Fuel Pump for Honda Civic Del Sol 1993-1997 (SKU: 10910). This pump is manufactured by KEMSO, a brand known for its commitment to quality and performance. The KEMSO 340 pump is a high-pressure unit capable of supporting applications up to around 700-800 horsepower, making it an ideal direct OEM replacement for stock pumps that have gone faulty .

The KEMSO pump delivers a flow rate of 340 liters per hour at 43 psi (13.5V), with an operational pressure range of 43 to 90 psi. It is E85 compatible, meaning you can use ethanol-blended fuels without issues. The pump body diameter is only 3.8 cm, making it a perfect fit for the Del Sol's fuel tank .

Each kit includes:

  • 1 genuine KEMSO 340 fuel pump (in-tank design, gasoline and E85 compatible)
  • 2 gradient density fuel strainers with lock rings (covers all models)
  • 1 flexible hose (8mm x 280mm)
  • 1 rubber hose
  • 1 wiring connector
  • 2 crimp connectors
  • 2 hose clamps
  • 1 rubber base
  • 2 zip-ties

KEMSO stands behind their products with a Lifetime Warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected. Unlike many cheap aftermarket units that lack quality control, KEMSO individually tests each pump and provides flow testing results. The pump is ideal for daily drivers, fast road use, or simply replacing a faulty OEM pump .

To purchase the KEMSO fuel pump for your Honda Del Sol, visit the official KEMSO website at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Cost of Replacement: Parts and Labor

If you decide to have a professional replace the fuel pump on your 1993 Honda Del Sol, the cost will vary depending on whether you go to a dealership, an independent shop, or use a mobile mechanic service.

According to estimates, the average cost for a fuel pump replacement on a 1993 Honda Civic Del Sol is around $453, with approximately $110 for parts and $343 for labor . However, dealership prices can be significantly higher. One estimate shows a fair repair range of $1,104 to $1,299 for a 1993 Del Sol, with parts costing $588 to $649 and labor costing the same . Independent shops tend to be cheaper, with estimates around $1,104 to $1,219 .

If you are comfortable with DIY work, you can save a substantial amount of money by purchasing the pump yourself and doing the installation. The KEMSO pump, for example, is priced competitively at just $79.98 , which is far less than the parts cost at a dealership.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Once you have the new fuel pump, here is a summarized guide to installing it on your 1993 Honda Del Sol:

1. Prepare the vehicle. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Relieve fuel system pressure by removing the fuel cap. Remove the rear seat cushion and the fuel pump access cover .

2. Remove the old pump. Disconnect the electrical connector and fuel lines. Remove the retaining ring or nuts. Carefully lift the old pump assembly out of the tank, angling it to avoid damage. Be cautious of the pump screen .

3. Install the new pump. Before installing, attach the new strainer (sock filter) to the bottom of the new pump. Position the new pump assembly into the tank, aligning it with the mounting points. Secure it with the retaining ring or nuts. Tighten to the manufacturer's specified torque settings, typically around 10-12 ft-lbs .

4. Reconnect lines and connectors. Reconnect the fuel lines, ensuring a tight seal to prevent leaks. Push quick-connect fittings until they click. Reconnect the electrical connector until it locks .

5. Test the installation. Reconnect the battery. Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine. Listen for the fuel pump's priming cycle, a brief humming sound that indicates the pump is functioning. If the pump does not prime, check fuses and relays. Finally, test fuel pressure using a gauge to ensure it is within the 38-46 psi range .

Important Safety Precautions

Working with fuel is inherently dangerous. Always follow these safety guidelines:

  • Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.
  • Disconnect the battery before starting any work.
  • Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Do not smoke or allow any open flames near the work area.
  • Use appropriate tools to avoid sparking.
  • Dispose of old fuel and parts properly.

Conclusion

The 1993 Honda Del Sol fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, accessible through an access panel under the rear seat. This design makes replacement a manageable DIY project for most owners. Whether you choose a genuine OEM part (17040-SR2-A31) or a high-performance aftermarket option like the KEMSO 340 pump, the key is to address fuel pump issues promptly to avoid being stranded.

For the best value, reliability, and performance, we recommend the KEMSO Fuel Pump for Honda Civic Del Sol 1993-1997. It is a direct-fit, high-flow pump backed by a lifetime warranty, and it is available at a fraction of the cost of dealership parts. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to order yours today and get your Del Sol back on the road with confidence.


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