Fuel Pump Install
 

so it looks like the next step in the repair process is going to be putting in a new fuel pump. I've never done one before, but i do have a friend who has done a couple. My question is, has anyone here ever replaced a fuel pump before? and how difficult was it?

It's not that hard really. I had a helping hand who had done it many times before, but it's pretty simple. My advice would be to make sure you don't have a whole lot of gas in the tank. Makes it easier and lighter when you drop it. The tank is held on by two straps. Unbolt those and make sure you have a jack or something to support the tank and slowly lower. Just unhook whatever connectors are attached to it and drop it all the way down. Careful with the filler neck and slide it out of the tank as you're dropping it. Depending on how old the car is and miles, I would suggest getting a new rubber grommet for where the filler neck slides into the tank. It might rip or be worn and when you install everything you might have a leak and then just have to drop the tank all over again. Anyways, after the tank is dropped, you'll see a circular panel with some bolts. Open that up and there's your fuel pump. Good luck.

Oh you might as well replace the fuel filter as well since you're already done there and have to disconnect it. Make sure you get the little tool for that to remove the fuel line.

yup, that pretty much covers it. oh yeah, try not to beat up the metal too much, or the lines. and try to be careful about getting debris in the tank. I would also recommend going with a factory pump, or a Bosch unit. These I have found to be very reliable. Good luck!