Where Is the Fuel Tank Sending Unit in a 2001 Ford Escape?

The 2001 Ford Escape SUV was built from a shared platform with the Mazda Tribute. The Escape was available with either a 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder, or a 3.0-liter V-6 engine. The Escape was front-wheel drive with optional four-wheel drive. The fuel-sending unit is integrated with the fuel pump and must be replaced as a unit. The sending unit and pump assembly is located in the fuel tank. Fortunately, it can be accessed from inside the vehicle.

Instructions

Park the Escape on a level surface and set the parking brake.

Locate the fuse and relay box in the engine compartment. Lift off the cover and look at the diagram on the underside of the cover. Find the fuel pump relay. Start the engine and pull out the relay. The engine will continue to run for a few seconds then die. Turn over the engine for a few seconds to ensure the fuel pressure has been relieved.

Disconnect the negative battery cable with a wrench.

Fold the rear seat forward. Remove the square piece of carpet that was hidden by the seat. This reveals the access panel to the fuel pump-sending unit assembly. Remove the four screws with a Phillips-head screwdriver. This exposes the fuel pump-sending unit assembly.

Put on safety glasses. Vacuum the carpet and access cover area to remove dirt and debris. Use a shop rag to wipe off the top of the fuel pump-sending unit assembly.

Disconnect the two electrical connectors at the pump-sending unit assembly. Use needle-nose pliers to press together the white locking tabs at the front of the plastic fuel line coupling. Pull on the coupling to remove it from the pump-sending unit assembly. The white tab remains on the pump-sending unit assembly. Remove the other fuel line in the same manner. Use a shop rag to wipe up any fuel that may drip out of the line.

Unscrew the lock-ring from the pump-sending unit. If you cannot turn the ring by hand, use a brass punch and hammer to carefully loosen it.

Slowly lift out the pump-sending unit assembly, being careful not to bend the arm on the sending unit. Check the rubber gasket on the bottom of the pump-sending unit. If it is worn, cracked or damaged, replace it. If you are installing a new unit, it comes with a new gasket.

Slide the unit with gasket into the fuel tank, install and tighten the lock ring.

Push the fuel lines onto the unit. You will hear it click as the plastic coupling on the fuel line engages the locking tabs. Pull back on the line to ensure it is fully engaged on the unit.

Reconnect the electrical connectors. Reconnect the negative battery cable. Install the fuel pump relay.

Turn off all accessories such as the air conditioner or radio. Turn the ignition key to the "on" position and give the fuel pump about 15 seconds to prime. Start the engine. It may take a few extra seconds for the engine to start. Check for leaks around the fuel-sending unit and lines. Replace the access cover. Install and tighten the screws. Install the carpet.

Let the engine idle until it reaches normal operating temperature. After operating temperature is reached, let the engine idle for an additional minute. Turn on the air conditioner and let the engine idle for another minute or two. Drive the vehicle a minimum of 10 miles. This procedure is necessary for the PCM to relearn its idle and fuel strategy.