Can you hear if a fuel pump is worn out?

[x92560]

I just bought a 1992 Astro with a "W" motor and 108,000 miles. It runs good but the fuel pump makes a loud whining noise when it operates. It is the original fuel pump I believe.

When the pump runs it makes a sounds like, "Rreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeer"

Is this noise when the pump operates a symptom of a worn out fuel pump? or Do all Astros have make such a fuel pump noise?

The reason I ask is that I am planning to take a road trip and would hate to have the fuel pump go out during the trip. I would rather replace it before it breaks then after. But at the same time if its normal to have such noise then I won't bother with the pump now.

[MountainManJoe]

My pump is pretty loud when it's priming, and then it makes a constant, faint, high pitch buzz during operation. Been that way for 100,000 km without issue.

[LiftedAWDAstro]

At 108k miles, the pump is on borrowed time anyway. Some pumps are louder than others. Some get louder as they get close to expiring. Might be worth replacing at home when it is convenient. The rebuild kits are relatively cheap. I bought an AC Delco rebuild kit from Ebay seller "alanisdeals" and installed it into my 2005 and it works great and is nice an quiet. The one I linked says it is for the 1992 - 1996 vans.

[mdmead]

GM pumps of this generation can be pretty loud. Yours is probably fine.

That being said, you are coming due, and it is better to change it on your terms. Run the tank down to near empty!

Otherwise, I promise you it will fail right after you fill it up!

[safari kev]

GM pumps of this generation can be pretty loud. Yours is probably fine.

That being said, you are coming due, and it is better to change it on your terms. Run the tank down to near empty!

Otherwise, I promise you it will fail right after you fill it up!

mine did.....died one day after the tank was filled up.

[crazyvanman]

I have a 91 and a 94 and have to get on my knees and stick my head under the van to hear the fuel pump. Is that good or bad?

[Kidhauler]

If your pump does fail you can usually get the vehicle to start one more time by pounding on the bottom middle of the tank with your fist or a rubber mallet while someone cranks the engine over to start it. This will normally get you one start the truck should run untill you shut it off then it will not start again. So make sure your either at the shop or at home before you shut the engine down I have done this trick to dozens of cars but have never seen it work twice. Everyone that shut the engine off had to be towed.

[snapper388]

my fuel pump whined like that for a few weeks and stopped working while driving home and never worked again. take it as an early warning and replace it. if you have my luck youll break down in the worst place possible during rush hour.