How to Relieve Fuel Pressure on a 1998 Oldsmobile 3.8 Liter Motor

In 1988 Oldsmobile offered the General Motors 3.8-liter V-6 engine in the 88, Intrigue, LSS and Regency models. The engine relies on a sequential fuel injection system to delivered fuel to the injectors at a constant pressure of 45psi. When performing any type of fuel system maintenance or repair, the first step involves relieving the fuel pressure from the system. The GM 3.8-liter has a fuel pressure relief valve located on the top-rear portion of the engine, noted by a circular opening in the plastic engine cover. The relief valve resembles a tire valve stem.

Instructions

1

Remove the keys from the Oldsmobile's ignition. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable end from the Oldsmobile's battery using a battery wrench. Center the drain pan under the engine, below the fuel pressure relief valve.

2

Put your safety glasses on. Remove the fuel pressure relief valve cap to expose the valve core. Set the cap aside.

3

Place the tip of the pocket screwdriver on the needle in the relief valve's core. Hold a rag over the valve to catch the fuel and slowly depress the needle with the screwdriver tip. Wait for the fuel to stop coming out of the valve before you release the needle.

4

Wipe the area clean with another rag. Reinstall the fuel pressure relief valve cap to protect the valve core from debris.