89 f-150 Isnt getting fuel, how do I know if it's fuel pump, filters or relay?

20

Asked by ablowe75 Jul 12, 2013 at 01:41 AM about the 1989 Ford F-150 XLT Lariat Standard Cab 4WD SB

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My 89 F-150 died on me driving down interstate. It won't turn over, like it's not getting gas. Sounds like fuel pump is running even after key is off.  I know it is a fuel problem because I threw a gas soaked shop rag in under the air filter and it started right up. But is there an easy way to tell which it may be? I don't have a lot of fancy gadgets to test stuff, I know a little about vehicle repair and my husband knows nothing, so I am just trying to get ideas. And does anyone know how I can tell if my truck has the in-tank fuel pump without dropping the tank? These trucks have an external, but some have an in-tank pump as well. (I was told that it only has an internal if you have dual tanks with aplastic rear tank. But who knows.) Thanks for any input.

5 Answers

18,695

To the best of my knowledge, you have in tank pumps on these trucks, and if you have the dual tanks, you have a pump and sending unit in each one. The best way to check, quickly for fuel from the pump, is to pull the fuel line off the tank side of the fuel filter. Put a pail under the open end of the line, and have someone turn on the ignition, but not try to start it. The electric pump should start immediately, and the gas will come out of the line. If it does not, you have a bum pump or relays. To check for that, unplug the electrical lead to the pump/sending unit, and check for current with the ignition turned on. If you have current, then the pump is bad. If there is no current, then the relay is bad, and it should be found in the "Electrical Distribution Box" under the hood. Hope that helps.

37 people found this helpful.
100

open filter box spray starting fluid if she fires it is clogged pump filter, or inline filter,faulty pump or faulty switch, or fuse under hood marking "Fuel" that should do it just one or replace it all. old truck my advice replace it all

9 people found this helpful.
60

Where is the pews for fuel under the hood of and 89F150 fuel injection

6 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

F-150

Looking for a Used F-150 in your area?

CarGurus has 129,349 nationwide F-150 listings starting at $1,100.

ZIP:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

1989 Ford F-150

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    OJ
    Reputation
    41,830
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    15,990
  • #3
    Rowefast
    Reputation
    15,480
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used GMC Sierra 1500
1,835 Great Deals out of 65,440 listings starting at $3,400
Used Ford F-250
211 listings starting at $7,495
Used Ford Mustang
885 Great Deals out of 22,945 listings starting at $1,150
Used Ford Ranger
561 Great Deals out of 11,196 listings starting at $800
Used Jeep Wrangler
3,191 Great Deals out of 57,944 listings starting at $2,950
Used Toyota 4Runner
1,099 Great Deals out of 18,982 listings starting at $2,000

Used Cars for Sale

2024 Ford F-150 For Sale
48,038 listings starting at $25,365
2023 Ford F-150 For Sale
617 Great Deals out of 26,179 listings starting at $27,800
2022 Ford F-150 For Sale
562 Great Deals out of 5,989 listings starting at $18,999
2021 Ford F-150 For Sale
877 Great Deals out of 9,340 listings starting at $18,990
2020 Ford F-150 For Sale
625 Great Deals out of 6,228 listings starting at $8,999

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.