trajan3

New to the forum but have learned alot while surfing the threads. My 2003 Suburban with Flex Fuel 5.3 needs a fuel pump. Local parts carry Delphi and AC Delco for the straight gas version(both listed as OE) but all carry Airtex for the Flex Fuel and it is a fit but not OE. When I found an AC Delco OE for the Flex Fuel the price was nearly 200 more than the Airtex. Any thoughts or experience with the Airtex pumps? I am going to try to tackle this job this weekend and wanted a little information before buying the part. Everyone carries the Airtex brand.

Thanks.

SabrToothSqrl

I use after market stuff all the time for brakes, hubs, axles, etc, so I don't see a problem...

73shark

+1

Welcome to the forum.

MDTAHOE

I would recommend spending the extra money for the OE pump unless you are willing to take the risk of doing it again. I have had positive and negative results with Airtex pumps (only used as a last resort). Remember you get what you pay for.

trajan3

Thanks to everyone for the answers and opinions. I ordered the AC/Delco OE pump and my autoparts store gave me a discount on it. Looks like Saturday will be a "fun" day of installing.

trajan3

Weekend is over and I am still not finished with the job. I jacked it up and put the rear end on jack stands. I Unhooked battery, removed fuel filler line and vent line from the tank, siphoned about a gallon of gas out. The pumps you buy at the parts stores are junk. Took my chances with what was left in the tank. Then I removed the strap bolts with a jack supporting the tank. Then I dropped the rear end of the tank. The other end is supported by a jack. I removed one electrical connector, and one fuel line from the pump on the top of the tank. I can only get one hand in to work. I broke the plastic clip on the other fuel line and can't get it to release. The other electrical connector is new to me and I can't get it to release. Trying to find a way to release it without breaking it. Rain started and the temperature is below freezing. I am stopping for the night and will try again tomorrow. Anyone know how to remove the other plg? It is a 4 pin with a red piece in the middle. Also the new pump does not have the plastic retainer pieces on the inlets. Should they?