Fuel pump noise a problem?

[MrWampus]

My 81 spider fuel pump whines a lot. It comes and goes but is usually there most of the time. Is that a problem? Does that mean it's about the fail? I recently had the filter replaced thinking that may have caused the pump to be working hard, but it didn't change the noise. I bought a new pump but haven't installed it. For now carrying it in the trunk just in case. Should I worry or just wait for it to fail?

[majicwrench]

You should be, and you are, concerned. Lots of pumps whine, has it always done it?? If it just started or is getting louder, more reasons to be concerned. At the same time, I don't usually change pumps unless they make awful noises.
Your call.
Keith

[MrWampus]

Thanks Keith. I've only had the car a month and it made the noise when I bought it. I had a good Fiat mechanic go over the car thoroughly to tell me whether I was buying a lemon or a peach and he acknowledged the fuel pump whine but didn't seemed too concerned. But since this car is very original, I'm pretty sure it's the original fuel pump. I guess I'll keep driving it until the pump goes and know that I have a spare in the trunk.

[wikkid]

Old car, old gas, maybe some debris from the tank got into the pump? Not much you can do except what you have done: have a replacement handy. Not a big job to swap it and keep the old one as a spare, as that may give you peace of mind and prevent a roadside pump swap-out.

Release fuel pressure in the lines, undo the fuel lines and the electrical connections, replace.

[124ADDHE]

My vote - I would replace it since you have the pump and keep the old one for a spare - you have the part and are worried, it would be some simple "peace of mind".

[MrWampus]

Good advice folks, I think I'll go ahead and replace the pump. One quick question, I know the fuel injected system is pressurized, how do I release the pressure from the line or do I just grit my teeth and pull the line off and try to catch the spew?

[124JOE]

even if you releave the pressure its going to give you a puddle

[wikkid]

Mr. Wampus, you should get a service manual. Check your inbox - you have a PM.