Edelbrock 17301 Fuel Pump Installation: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Successfully installing an Edelbrock 17301 fuel pump hinges on meticulous preparation, scrupulous attention to safety protocols, and thorough post-installation system checks. While replacing an in-tank fuel pump module like the Edelbrock 17301 is a common task for enthusiasts, it demands respect for the inherent dangers of working with gasoline and strict adherence to procedures. This detailed guide provides the clear, step-by-step instructions and critical insights needed for a safe, reliable installation of the Edelbrock 17301 fuel pump module in your classic car, muscle car, or street rod. Following these steps precisely ensures optimal fuel delivery and engine performance.

Why the Edelbrock 17301? Details Matter. The Edelbrock 17301 is a high-quality, complete in-tank fuel pump module designed specifically for carbureted applications requiring electric fuel pumps. Key features include:

• Direct Fit Design: Engineered to replace original or worn modules in specific GM A-Body, F-Body, and X-Body vehicles (Chevelles, Novas, Camaros, Firebirds, etc.), simplifying installation.
• Internal Pump: Houses a reliable, performance-oriented fuel pump capable of delivering adequate fuel volume and pressure for typical carbureted V8 engines.
• Integrated Components: Combines the pump, tank seal, sending unit (fuel level sensor), and necessary wiring into a single assembly, ensuring compatibility and reducing potential leak points.
• EFI-Style Bucket: Utilizes a modern bucket design that helps submerge the pump intake and reduces noise and vapor lock potential compared to some older designs.
• Performance Focus: Built to meet the demands of street performance and mild performance engines using carburetors.
• Quality Construction: Manufactured by Edelbrock to high standards, offering improved reliability over cheaper alternatives. Choosing the correct, genuine Edelbrock 17301 ensures compatibility and performance.

Essential Tools and Supplies You Absolutely Need
Gathering everything beforehand prevents frustration and delays. Here's the essential checklist:

• Safety Gear: Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile), ANSI-approved safety glasses, long sleeves, work pants, closed-toe shoes. Have a Class B fire extinguisher readily accessible near the work area.
• General Tools: Combination wrenches, sockets and ratchets (metric and SAE as needed for your specific vehicle), screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), pliers (needle-nose, slip-joint, lineman's if wiring work is needed).
• Specialty Tools: Fuel line disconnect tools (specific size for your vehicle's fuel lines), fuel pressure gauge kit.
• Supplies: Shop rags (lots of them), container suitable for gasoline (at least 5-gallon capacity), mechanic's wire or wire ties, electrical contact cleaner, dielectric grease, thread sealant rated for gasoline (if specified by Edelbrock for the sending unit threads).
• Vehicle Support: Quality automotive jack stands rated for the vehicle's weight, wheel chocks. A vehicle lift is ideal but not essential.
• Reference: Vehicle service manual or factory assembly manual.

Critical Safety Precautions: Non-Negotiable Steps
Working with gasoline is extremely dangerous. These steps are mandatory:

1. Work Outdoors or Very Well Ventilated Area: Never work in a closed garage. Risk of fumes accumulating is severe. Ensure constant, strong airflow.
2. Battery Disconnection: Park the vehicle on a level surface. Place chocks firmly behind the rear wheels. Disconnect the NEGATIVE (-) battery cable first. This is essential to prevent sparks near fuel. Tape or secure the cable end away from the battery terminal.
3. Relieve Fuel System Pressure: Locate the fuel pump fuse or relay in your fuse box. Start the engine and let it run until it stalls. This burns off most pressure. Crank the engine for a few seconds to ensure pressure is depleted. Remove the pump fuse/relay to prevent accidental activation. Place a rag over the fuel filter or fuel line connection point you intend to open and slowly loosen it slightly to catch any remaining fuel. Capture it in a container.
4. Drain the Fuel Tank: Do not attempt to remove the module with a full or partially full tank. You must drain the tank significantly. Locate the tank drain plug if equipped. If not, you will need to siphon fuel out through the filler neck using a manual or electric siphon pump designed for fuel. Transfer fuel to a certified, labeled gasoline container. Drain until fuel level is well below the pump module access point.
5. Fire Prevention: Absolutely no smoking, open flames, sparks (including grinders or welding anywhere near the area), or heat sources near the work area. The Class B fire extinguisher must be within immediate reach. Have baking soda available to neutralize spilled fuel.
6. Gloves and Eye Protection: Wear chemical-resistant gloves and safety glasses throughout the entire process. Gasoline is a skin irritant and carcinogen.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Phase 1: Removal of the Old Fuel Pump Module

1. Access the Module: Most target vehicles have the fuel pump module accessible through a panel under the rear seat or directly over the tank in the trunk floor. Remove interior trim, carpeting, or seat(s) as necessary to expose the access cover. Some installations might require tank removal if no access panel exists (refer to your service manual).
2. Disconnect Electrical Connector(s): Locate the electrical connector(s) plugging into the top of the old pump module. These include the main pump power/sender connector and possibly a separate ground wire. Carefully depress any locking tabs and disconnect the connector(s). Pay attention to wire routing.
3. Disconnect Fuel Lines: Identify the fuel supply line(s) (from tank to engine) and the return line (if equipped) connected to the module's top hat. Using the correct size fuel line disconnect tool, push the tool firmly into the fitting where the line connects to the module. While holding the tool in place, firmly pull the fuel line off the module nipple. Have rags ready. Capture any dripping fuel. Inspect the condition of the line fittings.
4. Remove Locking Ring: Clean the area around the module top hat and locking ring. Locking rings can be difficult. You typically need a large punch and a brass hammer, or a specialized spanner wrench designed for fuel pump lock rings. Place the punch or spanner tip into the notches on the ring and strike firmly COUNTER-CLOCKWISE (Lefty-Loosey). It will require significant force. Strike evenly around the ring until it loosens and can be unscrewed by hand.
5. Lift Out Module: With the locking ring removed, carefully lift the entire old fuel pump module assembly straight up and out of the fuel tank opening. It has a long, fragile sender arm and a filter sock on the bottom. Tilt it slightly to clear the opening, guiding the sender arm carefully. Be extremely cautious not to bend the sender arm or damage the float. Set the old module aside in a suitable, safe container or tray lined with rags.

Phase 2: Preparing the New Edelbrock 17301 Module

1. Unbox and Inspect: Remove the Edelbrock 17301 from its packaging. Carefully compare it to your old module. Ensure all components are included (module, seal, possibly gaskets). Verify the part number matches 17301. Inspect for any shipping damage.
2. Inspect and Prepare Seal: Locate the large rubber seal included in the kit. Ensure it is pliable and free of cracks or damage. Clean it with a lint-free rag if necessary. Lightly lubricate only the top and bottom edges of the seal where it makes contact with the tank neck and module hat with a very thin film of clean engine oil or silicone grease if specified in Edelbrock instructions. Do not use petroleum jelly; it degrades rubber. Avoid getting lubricant on the sealing surfaces facing the inside or outside.
3. Transfer Components (If Necessary): In some rare cases, you might need to transfer the existing tank vent line elbow or very specific bracket from your old module to the new 17301. Refer to Edelbrock's specific instructions for your application regarding any transfer parts. Ensure the wiring connector matches your vehicle.
4. Align Components: The module top must be correctly oriented to align with the fuel line connections and wiring harness connectors within the access hole. Note the position of the keyed notch on the module's top hat relative to the tank neck and your vehicle's wiring/fuel line routing before final installation.

Phase 3: Installing the Edelbrock 17301 Module

1. Clean the Tank Opening: Thoroughly clean the entire fuel tank opening where the seal sits. Remove all debris, dirt, and old sealant residue. A lint-free rag dampened with a little brake cleaner (used cautiously away from the open tank) can help. Ensure this sealing surface is immaculate.
2. Position New Seal: Place the new, lightly lubricated fuel tank seal into the groove around the top neck of the fuel tank opening. Ensure it is seated evenly and completely around the circumference without any twisting.
3. Insert Module: Carefully align the new module assembly with the keyed notch in the correct position. Gently lower it straight down into the tank, carefully guiding the sender arm and float assembly to avoid bending it on the tank opening. Ensure the filter sock isn't caught. Seat the module top hat firmly and evenly down onto the seal. Visually confirm the hat is sitting flat.
4. Install Locking Ring: Place the locking ring over the module top hat, aligning it with the threads on the tank neck. Ensure the ring is oriented correctly (often it has tabs that must fit into specific points). Hand-tighten it clockwise as much as possible. Using the large punch and brass hammer or spanner wrench, tap the ring firmly CLOCKWISE (Righty-Tighty) in its notches. Alternate between notches to tighten it evenly. This requires significant force. Tap until the ring feels very tight and fully seated against the stops. You should not be able to rotate the module assembly by hand when the ring is properly tightened. Double-check the orientation is still correct.
5. Reconnect Fuel Lines: Reattach the fuel supply line and return line (if equipped) to their respective nipples on the top of the module. Ensure you hear and feel a definite "click" as each connection fully engages. Give each line a firm tug to confirm it is locked.
6. Reconnect Electrical Connectors: Connect the main wiring harness connector(s) to the module. Ensure locking tabs click into place. Reattach any ground wires securely using the correct fastener if it was removed. Verify connections are tight and corrosion-free. Double-check connector orientation.

Phase 4: Post-Installation Steps & Critical System Checks

1. Initial Assembly: Reinstall the interior access panel (replace any gasket if required) and secure it with screws. Replace carpet, trim, and seats if removed.
2. Fuel System Priming: Do not reconnect the battery yet. Locate the fuel pump fuse or relay you removed earlier. Insert it back into its socket. Now, reconnect the NEGATIVE (-) battery cable.
3. Pressurize the System: Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (Do not start the engine). You should hear the Edelbrock 17301 pump run for about 2-3 seconds to pressurize the system, then shut off. Turn the key off, then back to ON again 2-3 more times to ensure the system is fully pressurized without any immediate leaks. Listen carefully near the pump access area and under the hood for the pump sound and for any hissing (leaks).
4. Leak Detection Check - Immediate: Visually inspect every connection point you touched under the vehicle and at the module top:
   • Fuel line connections at the module.
   • Around the circumference of the locking ring and seal area.
   • Any vent lines you disconnected.
   • Crucial: Check for several minutes, actively looking for any dripping or wetness. Use a flashlight. Any leak is a safety hazard and must be addressed immediately!
5. Install/Verify Fuel Filter: Ensure a clean fuel filter is installed in the engine bay and that lines are securely connected.
6. Cold Start Attempt: Once you confirm no immediate leaks after the prime cycles, attempt to start the engine. It may take slightly longer than usual to start as fuel fills the lines and carburetor bowl(s). Be prepared to turn the key off if abnormal noises or leaks occur.
7. Comprehensive Leak Check - Operational: After the engine starts and idles:
   • Let it run for a few minutes.
   • Conduct another extremely thorough visual inspection of all fuel connections (pump, filter, carb inlet) and the seal area. Look closely for any seepage, dripping, or dampness.
   • Listen for any unusual noises from the pump (excessive whine, grinding).
   • Observe fuel pressure (if you have a gauge installed temporarily) at idle. Refer to Edelbrock specifications or your carburetor requirements (typically 4.5 - 6.5 PSI for carbs). Significant deviation warrants investigation.
8. Ground Connection Verification: Ensure the pump module ground wire (usually connected at the top or under a mounting bolt) is clean, tight, and secure to bare metal.
9. Fuel Sender Accuracy Check: Fill the fuel tank partially (a few gallons). Turn ignition on and monitor the fuel gauge reading. Does it move accurately compared to what you know is in the tank? Drive the vehicle cautiously at first and verify the gauge moves downward reasonably. Compare against known distances or fill-ups for ultimate accuracy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Ensuring Long-Term Reliability

• Use Quality Fuel: Minimize contaminants by purchasing fuel from reputable stations.
• Avoid Running Extremely Low on Fuel: The in-tank pump relies on fuel for cooling. Running the tank very low consistently increases pump heat stress and reduces its lifespan.
• Replace Fuel Filter Regularly: Follow the vehicle manufacturer's or a shortened maintenance interval (e.g., every 12-15k miles or annually) to protect the pump and carburetor.
• Electrical Connections: Periodically check the main power and ground connections for the pump module to ensure they remain clean, tight, and corrosion-free.
• Monitor Performance: Pay attention to changes in starting behavior, idle quality, or performance under load that might indicate emerging fuel delivery issues.

Conclusion: Confidence Through Correct Installation
Installing the Edelbrock 17301 fuel pump module is a manageable task with the right preparation, focus on safety, and adherence to these detailed procedures. By meticulously following each step – especially draining fuel, depressurizing, disconnecting the battery, achieving proper lock ring tightness, and conducting exhaustive leak checks – you ensure a safe and reliable fuel delivery system upgrade. The Edelbrock 17301 is designed to provide dependable fuel flow for your carbureted performance engine. Recognize when you need assistance; if any step feels unsafe or beyond your expertise, consulting a qualified professional mechanic is always the right choice. Properly installed and maintained, your Edelbrock 17301 fuel pump will provide years of dependable service. Key success indicators are no fuel leaks at all, strong engine starts, stable fuel pressure, an accurate fuel gauge, and smooth engine performance across the RPM range.