FuEl PuMp.. . ???

[James Scott]

My 1995 SVX [202,000 miles] wouldn't start (firing on 1 or 2 cylinders?) after buying groceries (fortunately close to home). After trying to guess diagnosis, I decided to disconnect fuel line at filter, to see if there was fuel pressure. There was no fuel coming out. After towing home, I checked relay under dash. It was clicking, appeared to be working (?). I then took out back seat, hoping that I wouldn't need a new fuel pump. Not only is it expensive, but looks like it may be impossible (certainly difficult) for me to install (based on sketchy repair manual info). I disconnected the fuel pump harness, checked 5 terminals for voltage.. and found 12 V at 2 of the terminals. SO, it seemed I needed a new pump. However, I re-connected the harness to the connector on the fuel tank cap.. . AND the pump then worked! I removed the harness again, sprayed it with electrical lube spray.. and reconnected. It continued to work!

Should I use this car, waiting for the problem to recur much later?.. . OR should I plan to replace the fuel pump right away? Is there any experience with this out there.. . ???

Please help if possible.. Thanks, Jim

P.S. Can a regular home mechanic do this? Is it really as difficult to replace as it appears?

[James Scott]

If I get a new fuel pump, which one: The OEM subaruparts.com for $294 + S/H or one of the many OE replacement pumps on Ebay or ??? I know some are noisey.. . Is there a quiet/high-flow one that's good + cheap? How about the "Tre" and "High Flow" brands they show on Ebay. . ?

Please give any advice.. . I need to order quick.. . Or just put back together as-is and hope it keeps working (?)!

Jim