Ring holding fuel pump in tank is corroded / rusty. Can't move it, are the tabs secured with slots OR by turning the ring will the slots move and tabs stay put??

Hi there:
Check this procedure:

1. Relieve the fuel system pressure using the recommended procedure.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Drain the fuel tank, then remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.
4. While holding the modular fuel sender assembly down, remove the snap-ring from the designated slots located on the retainer.

WARNING The modular fuel sender assembly may spring up from its position. When removing the modular fuel sender from the tank, be aware that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. It must be tipped slightly during removal to avoid damage to the float.

1. Remove the external fuel strainer.
2. Detach the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) piece from the electrical connector and detach the fuel pump electrical connector.
3. Gently release the tabs on the sides of the fuel sender at the cover assembly. Begin by squeezing the sides of the reservoir and releasing the tab opposite the fuel level sensor. Move clockwise to release the second and third tabs in the same manner.
4. Lift the cover assembly out far enough to detach the fuel pump electrical connection.
5. Rotate the fuel pump baffle counterclockwise and remove the baffle and pump assembly from the retainer.
6. Slide the fuel pump outlet out of slot, then remove the fuel pump outlet seal.

To install:

1. Install the fuel pump outlet seal, then slide the fuel pump outlet in the slots of reservoir cover.
2. Install the fuel pump and baffle assembly onto the reservoir retainer and rotate clockwise until seated.
3. Install the lower retainer assembly partially into the reservoir. Line up all 3 sleeve tabs. Press the retainer onto the reservoir making sure all 3 tabs are firmly seated.

Gently pull on the fuel pump reservoir from retainer to assure a secure fastening. If not secure, replace the entire fuel sender.

1. Attach the fuel pump connector.
2. Fasten the CPA connector to the fuel sender cover.
3. Install a new external fuel strainer.
4. Install the modular fuel sender.
5. Install the fuel tank in the vehicle.
6. Connect the negative battery cable.
7. Pressurize the fuel system and verify no leaks.

Fig. 7: The module fuel sender assembly is mounted in the fuel tank




Fig. 8: Modular fuel pump component identification

Hope this helps; also keep in mind that your feedback is important and I`ll appreciate your time and consideration if you leave some testimonial comment about this answer.

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Fig. The fuel pump/fuel sender module assembly is mounted in the fuel tank (click image for zoom)

1. Relieve the fuel system pressure. Refer to procedure in this section.
   
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
   
3. Drain the fuel tank, then remove the fuel tank from the vehicle. Refer to procedure located later in this section.
   
4. Thoroughly clean the area surrounding the sender snapring. Compressed air may be directed around the seal.

CAUTION Safety glasses MUST be worn when using compressed air to avoid eye injury due to flying dirt particles!

1. While holding the modular fuel sender assembly down, remove the snap-ring from the designated slots located on the retainer.

WARNING The modular fuel sender assembly may spring up from its position. When removing the modular fuel sender from the tank, be aware that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. It must be tipped slightly during removal to avoid damage to the float.

1. Remove the external fuel strainer.
   
2. Detach the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) piece from the electrical connector and detach the fuel pump electrical connector.
   
3. Gently release the tabs on the sides of the fuel sender at the cover assembly. Begin by squeezing the sides of the reservoir and releasing the tab opposite the fuel level sensor. Move clockwise to release the second and third tabs in the same manner.
   
4. Lift the cover assembly out far enough to detach the fuel pump electrical connection.
   
5. Rotate the fuel pump baffle counterclockwise and remove the baffle and pump assembly from the retainer.
   
6. Slide the fuel pump outlet out of slot, then remove the fuel pump outlet seal.
   

To install:

1. Install the fuel pump outlet seal, then slide the fuel pump outlet in the slots of reservoir cover.
   
2. Install the fuel pump and baffle assembly onto the reservoir retainer and rotate clockwise until seated.
   
3. Install the lower retainer assembly partially into the reservoir. Line up all 3 sleeve tabs. Press the retainer onto the reservoir making sure all 3 tabs are firmly seated.

NOTE Gently pull on the fuel pump reservoir from retainer to assure a secure fastening. If not secure, replace the entire fuel sender.

1. Attach the fuel pump connector.
   
2. Fasten the CPA connector to the fuel sender cover.
   
3. Install a new external fuel strainer.
   
4. Install the modular fuel sender.
   
5. Install the fuel tank in the vehicle.
   
6. Connect the negative battery cable.
   
7. Pressurize the fuel system and verify no leaks.

Hope this helps.

Relieve the fuel pressure at the pump switch located in the passenger compartment under the carpet of the transmission hump on the passenger side. Remove the fuel tank. Turn the lock ring counterclockwise until it's loose and remove the lock ring. Pull the fuel pump/sending unit from the tank being careful not to bend the arm for the sending unit float. Discard the old lock ring seal. Installation is reverse of removal with the following additions: (a)Apply a coat of heavy grease to the new lock ring seal to hold it in place during assembly. Install the seal in the lock ring groove. (b)Install the fuel sender/pump unit into the fuel tank so that the tabs of the unit are positioned into the slots in the fuel tank. Make sure to keep the seal in place during installation until the lock ring has been tightened properly. (c)Hold the fuel sender/pump unit in place, install and tighten the locking ring clockwise until the stop is against the retainer ring tab. - Mazda Pickups Repair Manual

hope this help

Fuel Pump - Removal & Installation

1. Before servicing the vehicle, refer to the precautions section.
2. Relieve the fuel system pressure.
3. Drain the fuel tank.
4. Remove or disconnect the following:
   
5. While holding the modular fuel sender assembly down, remove the snapring, if equipped or if equipped with a cam lock ring use Fuel Sender Lock Nut Tool J-39765 to press down and rotate the cam lock ring to remove it.
   WARNING If the modular fuel sender assembly is retained by a snapring, it may spring up from its position. When removing the modular fuel sender from the tank, be aware that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. It must be tipped slightly during removal to avoid damage to the float.
   Fuel sender assembly External fuel strainer Connector retainer from the wiring harness and the fuel pump
6. Gently release the tabs on the sides of the fuel sender at the cover assembly. Begin by squeezing the sides of the reservoir and releasing the tab opposite the fuel level sensor. Move clockwise to release the second and third tab in the same manner.
7. Remove or disconnect the following:
   Fuel pump electrical connection by lifting the cover assembly Baffle and pump assembly from the retainer by rotating the fuel pump baffle counterclockwise Fuel pump outlet by sliding it out of slot Fuel pump outlet seal

To install:



Fig. Exploded view of the fuel sender assembly mounting to the tank



Fig. Exploded view of the fuel pump assembly

1. Install or connect the following:
   NOTE Gently pull on the fuel pump reservoir to assure it is secure. If not secure, replace the entire fuel sender.
   Fuel pump outlet with a new seal by sliding it in the reservoir cover slots Fuel pump and baffle assembly onto the reservoir retainer by rotating it clockwise until seated Lower retainer assembly partially into the reservoir by aligning all 3 sleeve tabs and pressing the retainer onto the reservoir making sure all 3 tabs are firmly seated
   Connector retainer to the wiring harness and the fuel pump External fuel strainer Snapring, if equipped to the retainer slots while holding the modular fuel sender assembly down or use Fuel Sender Lock Nut Tool J-39765 in order to install the cam lock ring Fuel tank Negative battery cable
2. Pressurize the fuel system and verify no leaks.

Hope helps (remember rated and comment this).

It is inside the fuel tank.

The fuel tank must be dropped to access.

1. Properly relieve the fuel system pressure.
2. If not done already, disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Raise and safely support the vehicle with jackstands.
4. Safely drain, then remove the fuel tank assembly.
5. Remove the fuel tank sending unit and pump assembly by turning the fuel pump cam lock ring counterclockwise, then lift the assembly out of the tank.
6. Remove the fuel pump from the level sensor unit as follows:
   1. Pull the pump up into the attaching hose or pulsator while pulling outward away from the bottom support.
   2. Take care to prevent damage to the rubber insulator and strainer during removal.
   3. When the pump assembly is clear of the bottom support, pull the pump out of the rubber connector for removal.
   
   

To install:

1. Replace any attaching hoses or rubber sound insulator that show signs of deterioration.
2. Push the fuel pump into the attaching hoses and install the pump/sensor assembly into the tank. Always use a new O-ring seal.
3. Be careful not to fold over or twist the strainer when installing the sensor unit. Also, make sure the strainer does not block full travel of the float arm.
4. Position the cam lock and turn clockwise to lock.
5. Install the fuel tank.
6. Fill the tank with gas and check for fuel leaks.
7. Connect the negative battery cable.

The fuel pump is not serviced separately. The sending unit must be serviced as a complete unit.

1. Properly relieve the fuel system pressure.
2. If not already done, disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Drain, then remove the fuel tank.

Be careful when removing the modular fuel sender/pump because it may spring up from its position.

1. Remove the modular fuel sender/pump as follows:
   1. While holding the modular fuel sender assembly down, remove the snapring from the designated slots located on the retainer.
   2. Keep in mind that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. It must be tipped slightly during removal to avoid damage to the float. Place the reservoir fuel into an approved container.
   3. Remove and discard the fuel sender O-ring.
   
   
2. Remove the external fuel strainer.
3. Remove the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) from the electrical connector, then detach the fuel pump electrical connector.
4. Gently release the tabs on the sides of the fuel sender-to-cover assembly. Begin by starting at the sides of the reservoir and releasing the tab opposite the fuel level sensor. Move clockwise to release the second and third tab using the same method. Refer to the accompanying figure.
5. Lift the cover assembly out far enough to detach the fuel pump electrical connection.
6. Rotate the fuel pump baffle counterclockwise, then remove the baffle and pump assembly from their retainer. Refer to the accompanying figure.
7. Slide the fuel pump outlet out of the slot, then remove the seal/dampener.

To install:

1. Install the fuel pump seal/dampener, then slide the fuel pump outlet in the slots of the reservoir cover.
2. Position the fuel pump and baffle assembly onto the reservoir retainer, then rotate clockwise until seated.
3. Lower the retainer assembly partially into the reservoir. Line up all three sleeve tabs. Press the retainer onto the reservoir making sure all three tabs are firmly seated.

Gently pull on the fuel pump reservoir to be sure it is securely fastened. If it's not secure, the entire fuel sender must be replaced.

1. Attach the fuel pump electrical connector.
2. Attach the CPA to the fuel sender cover.
3. Install a new external fuel strainer.
4. Install the modular fuel sender as follows:
   1. Position a new sender-to-tank O-ring. Align the tab on the front of the sender with the slot on the front of the retainer snapring.
   2. Slowly apply pressure to the top of the spring loaded sender until it aligns flush with the retainer on the tank.
   3. Insert the snapring into its designated slots, making sure it is fully seated.
   
   
5. Install the fuel tank.
6. Carefully lower the vehicle, then fill the fuel tank.
7. Connect the negative battery cable.
8. To check for leaks perform the following:
   1. Turn the ignition to the ON position for two seconds.
   2. Next turn it to the OFF position for ten seconds.
   3. Turn again to the ON position and check for fuel leaks.

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REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
(see Figures 1 and 2)

CAUTION The fuel injection system remains under pressure, even after the engine has been turned OFF. The fuel system pressure must be relieved before disconnecting any fuel lines. Failure to do so may result in fire and/or personal injury.

1. Relieve the fuel system pressure using the recommended procedure.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Drain the fuel tank, then remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.
4. While holding the modular fuel sender assembly down, remove the snap-ring from the designated slots located on the retainer.

WARNING The modular fuel sender assembly may spring up from its position. When removing the modular fuel sender from the tank, be aware that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. It must be tipped slightly during removal to avoid damage to the float.

1. Remove the external fuel strainer.
2. Detach the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) piece from the electrical connector and detach the fuel pump electrical connector.
3. Gently release the tabs on the sides of the fuel sender at the cover assembly. Begin by squeezing the sides of the reservoir and releasing the tab opposite the fuel level sensor. Move clockwise to release the second and third tabs in the same manner.
4. Lift the cover assembly out far enough to detach the fuel pump electrical connection.
5. Rotate the fuel pump baffle counterclockwise and remove the baffle and pump assembly from the retainer.
6. Slide the fuel pump outlet out of slot, then remove the fuel pump outlet seal.

To install:

1. Install the fuel pump outlet seal, then slide the fuel pump outlet in the slots of reservoir cover.
2. Install the fuel pump and baffle assembly onto the reservoir retainer and rotate clockwise until seated.
3. Install the lower retainer assembly partially into the reservoir. Line up all 3 sleeve tabs. Press the retainer onto the reservoir making sure all 3 tabs are firmly seated.

Gently pull on the fuel pump reservoir from retainer to assure a secure fastening. If not secure, replace the entire fuel sender.

1. Attach the fuel pump connector.
2. Fasten the CPA connector to the fuel sender cover.
3. Install a new external fuel strainer.
4. Install the modular fuel sender.
5. Install the fuel tank in the vehicle.
6. Connect the negative battery cable.
7. Pressurize the fuel system and verify no leaks.

Fig. 1: The module fuel sender assembly is mounted in the fuel tank



Fig. 2: Modular fuel pump component identification




Hope this help to solve your problem (remember comment and rated this).

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
(see Figures 7 and 8)

CAUTION The fuel injection system remains under pressure, even after the engine has been turned OFF. The fuel system pressure must be relieved before disconnecting any fuel lines. Failure to do so may result in fire and/or personal injury.

1. Relieve the fuel system pressure using the recommended procedure.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Drain the fuel tank, then remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.
4. While holding the modular fuel sender assembly down, remove the snap-ring from the designated slots located on the retainer.

WARNING The modular fuel sender assembly may spring up from its position. When removing the modular fuel sender from the tank, be aware that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. It must be tipped slightly during removal to avoid damage to the float.

1. Remove the external fuel strainer.
2. Detach the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) piece from the electrical connector and detach the fuel pump electrical connector.
3. Gently release the tabs on the sides of the fuel sender at the cover assembly. Begin by squeezing the sides of the reservoir and releasing the tab opposite the fuel level sensor. Move clockwise to release the second and third tabs in the same manner.
4. Lift the cover assembly out far enough to detach the fuel pump electrical connection.
5. Rotate the fuel pump baffle counterclockwise and remove the baffle and pump assembly from the retainer.
6. Slide the fuel pump outlet out of slot, then remove the fuel pump outlet seal.

To install:

1. Install the fuel pump outlet seal, then slide the fuel pump outlet in the slots of reservoir cover.
2. Install the fuel pump and baffle assembly onto the reservoir retainer and rotate clockwise until seated.
3. Install the lower retainer assembly partially into the reservoir. Line up all 3 sleeve tabs. Press the retainer onto the reservoir making sure all 3 tabs are firmly seated.

Gently pull on the fuel pump reservoir from retainer to assure a secure fastening. If not secure, replace the entire fuel sender.

1. Attach the fuel pump connector.
2. Fasten the CPA connector to the fuel sender cover.
3. Install a new external fuel strainer.
4. Install the modular fuel sender.
5. Install the fuel tank in the vehicle.
6. Connect the negative battery cable.
7. Pressurize the fuel system and verify no leaks.

Fig. 7: The module fuel sender assembly is mounted in the fuel tank



Fig. 8: Modular fuel pump component identification



Hope this help (remember rated this post).

Yes the tank must be removed

Fuel Pump: Service and Repair
WARNING: The fuel system is under constant pressure, even when the engine is OFF. Always release fuel pressure before servicing any fuel
system component.
FUEL PUMP REMOVAL
1. Release fuel system pressure.
2. Fuel tank must be removed prior to fuel pump service.
3. Using a hammer and a brass drift, carefully tap the fuel pump lock-ring counter-clockwise to release the fuel pump.
4. Remove the fuel pump and its O-ring from the fuel tank, and discard the old O-ring.
5. Cover tank openings to prevent dirt from entering system.
FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT REMOVAL
1. Gently bend the sending unit locking tabs away from the sending unit.
2. Remove the electrical connector cover (red). Remove the sending unit wires from the electrical connector.
3. Use one screwdriver to push on the fuel pump body, and use another to release the sending unit locking tab from the sending unit.
4. Slide the sending unit assembly off of the fuel pump reservoir housing.
5. Pull the wires through the reservoir body and fuel pump cover plate.
FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT INSTALLATION
1. Bend the sending unit wires and lay them into the slot on the back of the sending unit.
2. Slide the sending unit into the slots on the fuel pump reservoir body. Slide the wires through the triangle shaped hole in the fuel pump reservoir
body. Check that the tab in the fuel sending unit locks into the detent in the fuel pump reservoir body.
3. Slip the wires onto the tab of the fuel pump reservoir body.
4. Slide the sending unit wire terminals into the electrical connector. Install the terminal locking cover.
5. Slide the fuel sending unit electrical connector into the bottom of the fuel pump electrical connector. Check that the connectors are securely
attached and fully pushed into each other.
FUEL PUMP INSTALLATION
1. Wipe seal area of tank clean, and install a new O-ring seal on pump.
2. Position fuel pump module in tank and secure with the lock-ring.
3. Using a hammer and a brass drift, carefully tap the fuel pump lock-ring clockwise to lock the module in place.
NOTE: Do not overtighten the lock-ring, because the fuel pump seal could split and leak.
4. Install fuel tank assembly.
NOTE: ASD and fuel pump relays remain energized for 7 minutes during the following test, unless the test is stopped or the ignition switch is
turned to the OFF position.
5. Using scan tool, place ignition switch in "RUN" position and use Actuate Output Test "Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay", to activate fuel pump and
pressurize system.
6. Check for leaks.

here are step by step instructions on the removal and installation of your fuel tank and fuel pump. please do not forget to rate and comment about your experience with fixya today.
Removal & Installation

1. Before servicing the vehicle, refer to the precautions section.
   
2. Relieve the fuel system pressure.
   
3. Drain the fuel tank.
   
4. Remove or disconnect the following:
   
5. While holding the modular fuel sender assembly down, remove the snapring, if equipped or if equipped with a cam lock ring use Fuel Sender Lock Nut Tool J-39765 to press down and rotate the cam lock ring to remove it.
   
   WARNING If the modular fuel sender assembly is retained by a snapring, it may spring up from its position. When removing the modular fuel sender from the tank, be aware that the reservoir bucket is full of fuel. It must be tipped slightly during removal to avoid damage to the float.
   
   • Fuel sender assembly
     
   • External fuel strainer
     
   • Connector retainer from the wiring harness and the fuel pump
     
6. Gently release the tabs on the sides of the fuel sender at the cover assembly. Begin by squeezing the sides of the reservoir and releasing the tab opposite the fuel level sensor. Move clockwise to release the second and third tab in the same manner.
   
7. Remove or disconnect the following:
   
   • Fuel pump electrical connection by lifting the cover assembly
     
   • Baffle and pump assembly from the retainer by rotating the fuel pump baffle counterclockwise
     
   • Fuel pump outlet by sliding it out of slot
     
   • Fuel pump outlet seal
     

To install:
Install or connect the following:

1. • Fuel pump outlet with a new seal by sliding it in the reservoir cover slots
     
   • Fuel pump and baffle assembly onto the reservoir retainer by rotating it clockwise until seated
     
   • Lower retainer assembly partially into the reservoir by aligning all 3 sleeve tabs and pressing the retainer onto the reservoir making sure all 3 tabs are firmly seated
     
   
   NOTE Gently pull on the fuel pump reservoir to assure it is secure. If not secure, replace the entire fuel sender.
   
   • Connector retainer to the wiring harness and the fuel pump
     
   • External fuel strainer
     
   • Snapring, if equipped to the retainer slots while holding the modular fuel sender assembly down or use Fuel Sender Lock Nut Tool J-39765 in order to install the cam lock ring
     
   • Fuel tank
     
   • Negative battery cable
     
2. Pressurize the fuel system and verify no leaks.
   

1. Release fuel system pressure.
2. Fuel tank must be removed prior to fuel pump service.
3. Using a hammer and a brass drift, carefully tap the fuel pump lock-ring counter-clockwise to release the fuel pump.
4. Remove the fuel pump and its O-ring from the fuel tank, and discard the old O-ring.
5. Cover tank openings to prevent dirt from entering system.

FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT REMOVAL

1. Gently bend the sending unit locking tabs away from the sending unit.
2. Remove the electrical connector cover (red). Remove the sending unit wires from the electrical connector.
3. Use one screwdriver to push on the fuel pump body, and use another to release the sending unit locking tab from the sending unit.
4. Slide the sending unit assembly off of the fuel pump reservoir housing.
5. Pull the wires through the reservoir body and fuel pump cover plate.

FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT INSTALLATION

1. Bend the sending unit wires and lay them into the slot on the back of the sending unit.
2. Slide the sending unit into the slots on the fuel pump reservoir body. Slide the wires through the triangle shaped hole in the fuel pump reservoir body. Check that the tab in the fuel sending unit locks into the detent in the fuel pump reservoir body.
3. Slip the wires onto the tab of the fuel pump reservoir body.
4. Slide the sending unit wire terminals into the electrical connector. Install the terminal locking cover.
5. Slide the fuel sending unit electrical connector into the bottom of the fuel pump electrical connector. Check that the connectors are securely attached and fully pushed into each other.

FUEL PUMP INSTALLATION

1. Wipe seal area of tank clean, and install a new O-ring seal on pump.
2. Position fuel pump module in tank and secure with the lock-ring.
3. Using a hammer and a brass drift, carefully tap the fuel pump lock-ring clockwise to lock the module in place. NOTE: Do not overtighten the lock-ring, because the fuel pump seal could split and leak.
4. Install fuel tank assembly. NOTE: ASD and fuel pump relays remain energized for 7 minutes during the following test, unless the test is stopped or the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position.
5. Using scan tool, place ignition switch in "RUN" position and use Actuate Output Test "Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay", to activate fuel pump and pressurize system.
6. Check for leaks.