How to change a fuel pressure regulator in a 1997 pontiac grand prix

GM Century/Lumina/Grand Prix/Intrigue 1997-2000
Fuel Pressure Regulator - Removal & Installing
The fuel pressure regulator is a diaphragm-operated relief valve with fuel pump pressure on one side and regulator spring pressure and intake manifold vacuum on the other side. The regulator's function is to maintain a constant fuel pressure across the injectors at all times. The pressure regulator compensates for engine load by increasing fuel pressure as engine vacuum drops.

The fuel pressure regulator is serviced as a separate component. When servicing the pressure regulator, make sure that the O-ring back-up, large O-ring, filter screen and small O-ring are properly positioned on the pressure regulator.


Fig. Cutaway view of a typical fuel pressure regulator


REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
The need to work as cleanly as possible cannot be over-emphasized. Even the smallest amount of dirt, if allowed into the fuel pressure regulator and/or the fuel rail, will find its way to the fuel injectors. The nozzle openings of the injectors are very small. Keep hands and tools clean. Clean the areas to be disconnected with a suitable solvent. Carefully cover open fittings and connections to keep out foreign material. Dirt in the injectors almost guarantees a clogged fuel injector and engine performance problems.
3.1L and 3.4L (VIN E) Engines

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Relieve the fuel system pressure using the procedures found in this section.
3. Remove the upper intake manifold assembly. Please see .
4. Disconnect the vacuum line from the pressure regulator.
5. Remove the regulator retaining screw and remove the retainer bracket. Using a clean shop cloth to catch fuel spillage, carefully pull the regulator from the fuel rail. Twist the regulator slightly while removing to ease removal. Discard the O-ring.

1. Clean all parts well. DO NOT use shop compressed air to test or clean a fuel pressure regulator. Clean the fuel pressure regulator screen, if necessary. DO NOT immerse the fuel pressure regulator in a solvent bath or it will be damaged.
2. If the filter screen has been contaminated, it should be removed and the pressure regulator replaced.
3. Lubricate a new pressure regulator O-ring with clean engine oil and install on the regulator inlet.
4. Install the fuel return pipe to the regulator.
5. Install a new retainer and spacer bracket into the slot on the fuel rail and install the pressure regulator to the fuel rail. Tighten the fuel return line nut to 13 ft. lbs. (17 Nm).
6. Connect the vacuum line to the pressure regulator and install the retainer screw. Tighten to 76 inch lbs. (8.5 Nm).
7. Inspect and verify that the retainer and spacer bracket is engaged in the slots in the fuel rail. Grasp and pull on the regulator to ensure that it is properly seated.
8. Install the upper intake manifold. Please see .
9. Connect the negative battery cable.
10. Inspect for leaks using the following procedure:
    • Turn the ignition switch to the ON position for 2 seconds.
    • Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position for 10 seconds.
    • Turn the ignition switch to the ON position again.
    • Inspect all areas for fuel leaks.