Help with 1998 SL2 Fuel Pump issue

Discussion in 'Saturn S-series' started by SteveL44, Oct 25, 2025.

  1. SteveL44

    SteveL44

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    Hello to all ---

    I'm new here but have 2 1998 Saturn Sl2's.

    I just replaced fuel pump and fuel filter with help from a friend. The fuel pump comes on but it's very low pressure. I'm not sure if something is hooked up wrong. The car started with one turn of the key but I let it sit in my barn for five years without using it

    I removed the tank, drained it out, vacuumed the tank out and put a gallon of new fuel in and replaced the pump and filter.

    If anyone has any ideas I could sure use the help?

    I know the car runs because when you spray starting fluid in it starts right up

    Thanks in advance
     
    SteveL44, Oct 25, 2025
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  2. SteveL44

    Derf Moderator

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    Did you check to make sure the fuel lines were able to pass fuel? With ethanol in the gas, it can theoretically form that goop anywhere. Same for the injectors.

    Where are you testing the fuel pressure and what does it read? Is the fuel filter brand new? Has it ever seen fuel before installation in the Saturn? Is it one designed for the Saturn or is it a generic one?
     
    Derf, Oct 27, 2025
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  3. SteveL44

    SteveL44

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    The answer to your first question is no

    To the second question, we didn't test the fuel pressure with a gauge, we just looked to see if gas was getting into the intake and it wasn't.

    The filter is brand new but it is a generic one from Rock auto. And it hasn't seen seen fuel prior to the installation.


    Thanks for your reply
     
    SteveL44, Nov 1, 2025
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  4. SteveL44

    Derf Moderator

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    What did you vacuum out of the tank? Was there any goo in there?

    Do a loan a tool AutoZone or similar for a fuel pressure gauge. There is a Schrader valve in incoming fuel line right before the fuel rail. Should have a screw cap on it. Measure the pressure there with key on. We need to determine what the pressure is that is getting to the front of the car and also determine if the injectors are gunked up / being activated properly / working.

    Lots of things can happen in 5 years in a barn. Like rodents and chewed wiring. Have you checked the fuse for the fuel injectors?

    Do you remember which fuel filter you purchased? Include a link in your reply so that I may check it out? Thanks.

    Please report back with fuel pressure at the rail
     
    Derf, Nov 1, 2025
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