How to Remove the Fuel Pressure Regulator on an '87 Cavalier 2.0

The 1987 Chevy Cavalier base model came with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a four-speed manual transmission. Early in the world of fuel injection, the Cavalier was equipped with throttle body fuel injection, which simply is a carburetor with fuel injectors. The fuel pressure regulator is attached to the front side of the throttle body and the fuel meter. A faulty fuel pressure regulator can cause the engine to run rich or poor, and in some cases not at all. The pressure regulator maintains between 9 and 13 psi at the injectors at all times. When the engine vacuum drops, the fuel pressure at the injectors is increased.

Instructions

Removal

1

Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake. Lift the vehicle hood and support it with the hood prop rod. Open the driver's side door and remove the fuse box cover from the side of the dash board. Remove the fuel pump fuse; it is on the left side and fifth from the bottom. Start the engine and allow it to run until it stalls out. Crank the engine for an additional three seconds to ensure all pressure is relieved. Turn the ignition key "Off."

2

Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery with the battery wrench. Loosen the clamp for the intake air tube at the throttle body and position the intake tube to the side.

3

Loosen the pressure regulator mounting screws with the Torx bit socket and ratchet. Hold pressure on the pressure regulator cover and remove the mounting screws. Remove the pressure regulator cover, spring, spring seat and pressure diaphragm from the fuel meter.

4

Inspect the pressure regulator valve seat for any damage and replace the fuel meter as necessary.

Installation

5

Install the new pressure regulator diaphragm to the fuel meter; it should sit perfectly in the groove. Apply a small about of thread lock compound to the pressure regulator screws.

6

Install the spring seat into the regulator cover, followed by the regulator spring. Hold the pressure regulator and spring assembly over the diaphragm and position the spring into the groove of the diaphragm. Push the regulator cover until it makes full contact with the fuel meter. Install the pressure regulator screws and tighten to 22 inch-pounds with the Torx bit and torque wrench.

7

Install the fuel pump fuse into its socket in the fuse box and install the fuse box cover. Connect the negative battery cable and tighten the terminal with the battery wrench. Turn the ignition key to the On position and inspect the pressure regulator for any leaks. Turn the ignition key to the Off position

8

Set the air intake tube into position on the throttle body. Tighten the clamp with the screwdriver. Close the vehicle hood and dispose of the old pressure regulator.