2000 DODGE NEON Service Repair Manual

The inlet strainer, fuel pressure regulator and fuel
level sensor are the only serviceable items. If the fuel
pump requires service, replace the fuel pump module.
ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP
DESCRIPTION
The electric fuel pump is located in and is part of
the fuel pump module. It is a positive displacement,
gerotor type, immersible pump with a permanent
magnet electric motor. The fuel pump module is sus-
pended in fuel in the fuel tank.
OPERATION
The pump draws fuel through a strainer and
pushes it through the motor to the outlet. The pump
contains a check valve. The valve, in the pump out-
let, maintains pump pressure during engine off con-
ditions. The fuel pump relay provides voltage to the
fuel pump. The fuel pump has a maximum dead-
headed pressure output of approximately 880 kPa
(130 psi). The regulator adjusts fuel system pressure
to approximately 338 kPa (49 psi).
FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT
DESCRIPTION
The fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor) is
attached to the side of the fuel pump module. The
sending unit consists of a float, an arm, and a vari-
able resistor (track). The resistor track is used to
send electrical signals to the instrument cluster for
fuel gauge operation and are then transmitted to the
engine controller for OBDII emission requirements.
OPERATION
For fuel gauge operation:As fuel level
increases, the float and arm move up. This increases
the sending unit resistance, causing the fuel gauge to
read full. As fuel level decreases, the float and arm
move down. This decreases the sending unit resis-
tance causing the fuel gauge to read empty.
After this fuel level signal is sent to the instru-
ment cluster, the instrument cluster will transmit
the data across the J1850 bus circuit to the PCM.
For OBD II emission requirements:The voltage
signal is sent to the instrument cluster to indicate
fuel level. The cluster transmits the fuel level to the
PCM where it is used to prevent a false setting of
misfire and fuel system monitor trouble codes. This
occurs if the fuel level in the tank is less than
approximately 15 percent of its rated capacity.
FUEL FILTER/FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR
DESCRIPTION
A combination fuel filter and fuel pressure regula-
tor is used on all gas powered engines. It is located
on the top of the fuel pump module. A separate frame
mounted fuel filter is not used.
OPERATION
Fuel Pressure Regulator Operation:The pres-
sure regulator is a mechanical device that is cali-
brated to maintain fuel system operating pressure of
approximately 338 kPa (49 psi) at the fuel injectors.
It contains a diaphragm, calibrated springs and a
fuel return valve. The internal fuel filter (Fig. 2) is
also part of the assembly.
Fuel is supplied to the filter/regulator by the elec-
tric fuel pump through an opening tube at the bot-
tom of filter/regulator.
The fuel pump module contains a check valve to
maintain some fuel pressure when the engine is not
operating. This will help to start the engine.
If fuel pressure at the pressure regulator exceeds
approximately 49 psi, an internal diaphragm closes
and excess fuel pressure is routed back into the tank
through the pressure regulator. A separate fuel
return line is not used with any gas powered engine.
FUEL TANK
OPERATION
All models pass a full 360 degree rollover test
without fuel leakage. To accomplish this, fuel and
vapor flow controls are required for all fuel tank con-
nections.
All models are equipped with either one or two
rollover valves mounted into the top of the fuel tank
(or pump module).
An evaporation control system is connected to the
rollover valve(s) to reduce emissions of fuel vapors
into the atmosphere. When fuel evaporates from the
fuel tank, vapors pass through vent hoses or tubes to
a charcoal canister where they are temporarily held.
When the engine is running, the vapors are drawn
into the intake manifold. Certain models are also
equipped with a self-diagnosing system using a Leak
Detection Pump (LDP). Refer to the Emission Control
System for additional information.
FUEL RAIL
DESCRIPTION
The fuel rail supplies the necessary fuel to each
individual fuel injector and is mounted to the intake
manifold (Fig. 3).
14 - 4 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

OPERATION
The fuel pressure regulator is no longer mounted
to the fuel rail on any engine. It is now located on
the fuel tank mounted fuel pump module. Refer toFuel Filter/Fuel Pressure Regulator in the Fuel
Delivery System section of this group for information.
The fuel rail is not repairable.
FUEL INJECTORS
DESCRIPTION
The injectors are positioned in the intake manifold
with the nozzle ends directly above the intake valve
port (Fig. 4).
OPERATION
The fuel injectors are 12 ohm electrical solenoids
(Fig. 5). The injector contains a pintle that closes off
an orifice at the nozzle end. When electric current is
supplied to the injector, the armature and needle
move a short distance against a spring, allowing fuel
to flow out the orifice. Because the fuel is under high
pressure, a fine spray is developed in the shape of a
hollow cone. The spraying action atomizes the fuel,
adding it to the air entering the combustion chamber.
Fuel injectors are not interchangeable between
engines.
PRESSURE-VACUUM FILLER CAP
OPERATION
The loss of any fuel or vapor out of the filler neck
is prevented by the use of a safety filler cap. The cap
will release pressure only under significant pressure
of 10.9 to 13.45 kPa (1.58 to 1.95 psi). The vacuum
release for all gas caps is between 1.94 and 2.94 kPa
(0.28 and 0.43 psi). The cap must be replaced by a
similar unit if replacement is necessary.
Fig. 2 Side ViewÐFilter/Regulator
1 ± INTERNAL FUEL FILTER
2 ± FUEL FLOW TO FUEL INJECTORS
3 ± FUEL FILTER/FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR
4 ± O-RINGS
5 ± EXCESS FUEL BACK TO TANK
6 ± FUEL INLET
7 ± CALIBRATED SPRINGS
8 ± RUBBER GROMMET AT PUMP MODULE
9 ± LOCKING TAB
Fig. 3 Fuel Rail
Fig. 4 Fuel Injector LocationÐTypical
1 ± FUEL RAIL
2 ± INTAKE MANIFOLD
3 ± FUEL INJECTORS
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 5
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

WARNING: REMOVE FILLER CAP TO RELIEVE
TANK PRESSURE BEFORE REMOVING OR REPAIR-
ING FUEL SYSTEM COMPONENTS.
ONBOARD REFUELING VAPOR RECOVERY
OPERATION
The emission control principle used in the ORVR
system is that the fuel flowing into the filler tube
(appx. 1º I. D.) creates an aspiration effect which
draws air into the fill tube. During refueling, the fuel
tank is vented to the vapor canister to capture escap-
ing vapors. With air flowing into the filler tube, there
are no fuel vapors escaping to the atmosphere. Once
the refueling vapors are captured by the canister, the
vehicle's computer controlled purge system draws
vapor out of the canister for the engine to burn. The
vapors flow is metered by the purge solenoid so that
there is no or minimal impact on driveability or
tailpipe emissions.
As fuel starts to flow through the fill tube, it opens
the normally closed check valve and enters the fuel
tank. Vapor or air is expelled from the tank through
the control valve to the vapor canister. Vapor is
absorbed in the canister until vapor flow in the lines
stops, either following shut-off or by having the fuel
level in the tank rise high enough to close the control
valve. The control valve contains a float that rises to
seal the large diameter vent path to the canister. At
this point in the fueling of the vehicle, the tank pres-
sure increase, the check valve closes (preventing tank
fuel from spiting back at the operator), and fuel then
rises up the filler tube to shut-off the dispensing noz-
zle.If the engine is shut-off while the On-Board diag-
nostics test is running, low level tank pressure can
be trapped in the fuel tank and fuel can not be added
to the tank until the pressure is relieved. This is due
to the leak detection pump closing the vapor outlet
from the top of the tank and the one-way check valve
not allowing the tank to vent through the fill tube to
atmosphere. Therefore, when fuel is added, it will
back-up in the fill tube and shut off the dispensing
nozzle. The pressure can be eliminated in two ways:
1. Vehicle purge must be activated and for a long
enough period to eliminate the pressure. 2. Removing
the fuel cap and allowing enough time for the system
to vent thru the recirulation tube.
CONTROL VALVE/PRESSURE RELIEF
OPERATION
If the fuel tank should over-pressurize, the control
valve incorporates a pressure relief port that allows
pressure relief capability under extreme conditions.
Example, if the canister vent line was to get pinched
or obstructed, the relief valve would vent the pres-
sure.
QUICK-CONNECT FITTINGS
DESCRIPTION
Different types of quick-connect fittings are used to
attach various fuel system components. These are: a
single-tab type, a two-tab type or a plastic retainer
ring type. Some are equipped with safety latch clips.
Refer to the Removal/Installation section for more
information.
CAUTION: The interior components (o-rings, spac-
ers) of quick-connect fitting are not serviced sepa-
rately. Do not attempt to repair damaged fittings or
fuel lines/tubes. If repair is necessary, replace the
complete fuel tube assembly.
Fuel tubes connect fuel system components with
plastic quick-connect fuel fittings. The fitting con-
tains non-serviceable O-ring seals (Fig. 6).
CAUTION: Quick-connect fittings are not serviced
separately. Do not attempt to repair damaged quick-
connect fittings or fuel tubes. Replace the complete
fuel tube/quick-connect fitting assembly.
The quick-connect fitting consists of the O-rings,
retainer and casing (Fig. 6). When the fuel tube
enters the fitting, the retainer locks the shoulder of
the nipple in place and the O-rings seal the tube.
Fig. 5 Fuel Injector
1 ± FUEL INJECTOR
2 ± NOZZLE
3 ± TOP (FUEL ENTRY)
14 - 6 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

ROLLOVER VALVES
DESCRIPTION
All vehicles have rollover valve(s) on top of the fuel
tank.
OPERATION
The valves prevent fuel flow through the fuel tank
vent valve hoses should the vehicle rollover.
The rollover valves on the fuel tank are not ser-
viceable.
ORVR System Schematic
1 ± FUEL CAP
2 ± RECIRCULATION TUBE
3 ± LIQUID SEPARATOR
4 ± PURGE
5 ± W/LDP
6 ± BREATHER ELEMENT
7 ± W/O LDP8 ± CANISTER
9 ± ROLLOVER VALVE
10 ± FUEL TANK
11 ± CHECK VALVE
12 ± LIQUID TRAP
13 ± CONTROL VALVE
ORVR System
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 7
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

FUEL TUBES/LINES/HOSES AND CLAMPS
OPERATION
Also refer to Quick-Connect Fittings.
WARNING: THE FUEL SYSTEM IS UNDER A CON-
STANT PRESSURE (EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF).
BEFORE SERVICING ANY FUEL SYSTEM HOSES,
FITTINGS OR LINES, THE FUEL SYSTEM PRES-
SURE MUST BE RELEASED. REFER TO THE FUEL
SYSTEM PRESSURE RELEASE PROCEDURE IN
THIS GROUP.
Inspect all hose connections such as clamps, cou-
plings and fittings to make sure they are secure and
leaks are not present. The component should be
replaced immediately if there is any evidence of deg-
radation that could result in failure.
Never attempt to repair a plastic fuel line/tube.
Replace as necessary.
Avoid contact of any fuel tubes/hoses with other
vehicle components that could cause abrasions or
scuffing. Be sure that the plastic fuel lines/tubes areproperly routed to prevent pinching and to avoid heat
sources.
The lines/tubes/hoses used on fuel injected vehicles
are of a special construction. This is due to the
higher fuel pressures and the possibility of contami-
nated fuel in this system. If it is necessary to replace
these lines/tubes/hoses, only those marked EFM/EFI
may be used.
If equipped:The hose clamps used to secure rub-
ber hoses on fuel injected vehicles are of a special
rolled edge construction. This construction is used to
prevent the edge of the clamp from cutting into the
hose. Only these rolled edge type clamps may be
used in this system. All other types of clamps may
cut into the hoses and cause high-pressure fuel leaks.
Use new original equipment type hose clamps.
Tighten hose clamps to 3 N´m (25 in. lbs.) torque.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE RELEASE
PROCEDURE
(1) Remove Fuel Pump relay from Power Distribu-
tion Center (PDC). For location of relay, refer to label
on underside of PDC cover.
(2) Start and run engine until it stalls.
(3) Attempt restarting engine until it will no
longer run.
(4) Turn ignition key to OFF position.
CAUTION: Steps 1, 2, 3 and 4 must be performed to
relieve high pressure fuel from within fuel rail. Do
not attempt to use following steps to relieve this
pressure as excessive fuel will be forced into a cyl-
inder chamber.
(5) Place a rag or towel below fuel line quick-con-
nect fitting at fuel rail.
(6) Return fuel pump relay to PDC.
(7) One or more Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's)
may have been stored in PCM memory due to fuel
pump relay removal. The DRB IIItscan tool must be
used to erase a DTC.
INJECTOR CONNECTOR
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect electrical connectors at the fuel
injectors. To remove connector refer to (Fig. 8). Pull
the red colored slider away from injector (1). While
pulling the slider, depress tab (2) and remove connec-
tor (3) from injector. The factory fuel injection wiring
harness is numerically tagged (INJ 1, INJ 2, etc.) for
injector position identification. If harness is not
tagged, make note of wiring location before removal.
Fig. 6 Plastic Quick-Connect Fittings
1 ± CASING
2 ± WINDOW
3 ± RETAINER TAB
4 ± NIPPLE
5 ± O RINGS
6 ± WINDOW
7 ± RETAINER ªEARº
14 - 8 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

INSTALLATION
(1) Connect electrical connectors at all fuel injec-
tors. To install connector, refer to (Fig. 8). Push con-
nector onto injector (1) and then push and lock red
colored slider (2). Verify connector is locked to injec-
tor by lightly tugging on connector.
DRAINING FUEL TANK
WARNING: RELEASE FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE
BEFORE SERVICING FUEL SYSTEM COMPONENTS.
SERVICE VEHICLES IN WELL VENTILATED AREAS
AND AVOID IGNITION SOURCES. NEVER SMOKE
WHILE SERVICING THE VEHICLE.
(1) Remove fuel filler cap.
(2) Perform the Fuel System Pressure Release pro-
cedure.
(3) Disconnect negative cable from battery.
(4) Raise vehicle and support.
(5) Remove quick connect cap from drain port.
(6) Drain fuel tank into holding tank or a properly
labeledGasolinesafety container.
(7) Replace quick connect cap.
HOSES AND CLAMPS
Inspect all hose connections (clamps and quick con-
nect fittings) for completeness and leaks. Replace
cracked, scuffed, or swelled hoses. Replace hoses that
rub against other vehicle components or show sign of
wear.
Fuel injected vehicles use specially constructed
hoses. When replacing hoses, only use hoses marked
EFM/EFI.
When installing hoses, ensure that they are routed
away from contact with other vehicle components
that could rub against them and cause failure. Avoid
contact with clamps or other components that cause
abrasions or scuffing. Ensure that rubber hoses are
properly routed and avoid heat sources.
The hose clamps have rolled edges to prevent the
clamp from cutting into the hose. Only use clamps
that are original equipment or equivalent. Other
types of clamps may cut into the hoses and cause
high pressure fuel leaks. Tighten hose clamps to 1
N´m (10 in. lbs.) torque.
QUICK-CONNECT FITTINGS
REMOVAL
When disconnecting a quick-connect fitting, the
retainer will remain on the fuel tube nipple.
WARNING: RELEASE FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE
BEFORE DISCONNECTING A QUICK-CONNECT FIT-
TINGS. REFER TO THE FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE
PROCEDURE.
(1) Disconnect negative cable from battery or aux-
iliary jumper terminal.
(2) Perform Fuel Pressure Release Procedure.
Refer to the Fuel Pressure Release Procedure in this
section.
Fig. 7 Fuel Injectors
Fig. 8 Remove/Install Injector Connector
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 9
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

(3) Squeeze retainer tabs together and pull fuel
tube/quick-connect fitting assembly off of fuel tube
nipple. The retainer will remain on fuel tube.
INSTALLATION
CAUTION: Never install a quick-connect fitting
without the retainer being either on the fuel tube or
already in the quick-connect fitting. In either case,
ensure the retainer locks securely into the quick-
connect fitting by firmly pulling on fuel tube and fit-
ting to ensure it is secured.
(1) Using a clean lint free cloth, clean the fuel tube
nipple and retainer.
(2) Prior to connecting the fitting to the fuel tube,
coat the fuel tube nipple with clean 30 weight engine
oil.
(3) Push the quick-connect fitting over the fuel
tube until theretainer seats and a click is heard.
(4) The plastic quick-connect fitting has windows
in the sides of the casing. When the fitting com-
pletely attaches to the fuel tube, the retainer locking
ears and the fuel tube shoulder are visible in the
windows. If they are not visible, the retainer was not
properly installed (Fig. 9).Do not rely upon the
audible click to confirm a secure connection.
(5) Connect negative cable to battery or auxiliary
jumper terminal.
CAUTION: When using the ASD Fuel System Test,
the Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay remains energized
for either 7 minutes, until the test is stopped, or
until the ignition switch is turned to the Off posi-
tion.(6) Use the DRB scan tool ASD Fuel System Test
to pressurize the fuel system. Check for leaks.
TWO-TAB TYPE FITTING
This type of fitting is equipped with tabs located on
both sides of the fitting (Fig. 10). These tabs are sup-
plied for disconnecting the quick-connect fitting from
component being serviced.
CAUTION: The interior components (O-rings, spac-
ers) of this type of quick-connect fitting are not ser-
viced separately, but new plastic retainers are
available. Do not attempt to repair damaged fittings
or fuel lines/tubes. If repair is necessary, replace
the complete fuel tube assembly.
WARNING:
THE FUEL SYSTEM IS UNDER A CON-
STANT PRESSURE (EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF).
BEFORE SERVICING ANY FUEL SYSTEM HOSES, FIT-
TINGS OR LINES, THE FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE
MUST BE RELEASED. REFER TO THE FUEL PRES-
SURE RELEASE PROCEDURE IN THIS GROUP.
DISCONNECTION/CONNECTION
(1) Perform fuel pressure release procedure. Refer
to Fuel Pressure Release Procedure in this group.
(2) Disconnect negative battery cable from battery
or auxiliary jumper terminal.
(3) Clean fitting of any foreign material before dis-
assembly.
(4) To disconnect quick-connect fitting, squeeze
plastic retainer tabs (Fig. 10) against sides of quick-
connect fitting with your fingers. Tool use is not
required for removal and may damage plastic
retainer. Pull fitting from fuel system component
Fig. 9 Plastic Quick-Connect Fitting/Fuel Tube
Connection
1 ± WINDOW
2 ± TAB (2)
3 ± EAR
4 ± SHOULDER (ON TUBE)
Fig. 10 Typical Two-Tab Type Quick-Connect Fitting
1 ± TAB(S)
2 ± QUICK-CONNECT FITTING
14 - 10 FUEL SYSTEMPL
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

being serviced. The plastic retainer will remain on
component being serviced after fitting is discon-
nected. The O-rings and spacer will remain in quick-
connect fitting connector body.
(5) Inspect quick-connect fitting body and compo-
nent for damage. Replace as necessary.
CAUTION:
When the quick-connect fitting was dis-
connected, the plastic retainer will remain on the com-
ponent being serviced. If this retainer must be
removed, very carefully release the retainer from the
component with two small screwdrivers. After removal,
inspect the retainer for cracks or any damage.
(6) Prior to connecting quick-connect fitting to
component being serviced, check condition of fitting
and component. Clean parts with a lint-free cloth.
Lubricate with clean engine oil.
(7) Insert quick-connect fitting to component being
serviced and into plastic retainer. When a connection
is made, a click will be heard.
(8) Verify a locked condition by firmly pulling on
fuel tube and fitting (15-30 lbs.).
(9) Connect negative cable to battery or auxiliary
jumper terminal.
(10) Start engine and check for leaks.
PLASTIC RETAINER RING TYPE FITTING
This type of fitting can be identified by the use of a
full-round plastic retainer ring (Fig. 11) usually black
in color.
CAUTION: The interior components (O-rings, spac-
ers, retainers) of this type of quick-connect fitting
are not serviced separately. Do not attempt to repair
damaged fittings or fuel lines/tubes. If repair is nec-
essary, replace the complete fuel tube assembly.
WARNING: THE FUEL SYSTEM IS UNDER A CON-
STANT PRESSURE (EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF).
BEFORE SERVICING ANY FUEL SYSTEM HOSES,
FITTINGS OR LINES, THE FUEL SYSTEM PRES-
SURE MUST BE RELEASED. REFER TO THE FUEL
SYSTEM PRESSURE RELEASE PROCEDURE IN
THIS GROUP.
DISCONNECTION/CONNECTION
(1) Perform fuel pressure release procedure. Refer
to Fuel Pressure Release Procedure in this section.
(2) Disconnect negative battery cable from battery
or auxiliary jumper terminal.
(3) Clean fitting of any foreign material before dis-
assembly.
(4) To release fuel system component from quick-
connect fitting, firmly push fitting towards compo-nent being serviced while firmly pushing plastic
retainer ring into fitting (Fig. 11). With plastic ring
depressed, pull fitting from component.The plastic
retainer ring must be pressed squarely into fit-
ting body. If this retainer is cocked during
removal, it may be difficult to disconnect fit-
ting. Use an open-end wrench on shoulder of
plastic retainer ring to aid in disconnection.
(5) After disconnection, plastic retainer ring will
remain with quick-connect fitting connector body.
(6) Inspect fitting connector body, plastic retainer
ring and fuel system component for damage. Replace
as necessary.
(7) Prior to connecting quick-connect fitting to
component being serviced, check condition of fitting
and component. Clean parts with a lint-free cloth.
Lubricate with clean engine oil.
(8) Insert quick-connect fitting into component
being serviced until a click is felt.
(9) Verify a locked condition by firmly pulling on
fuel tube and fitting (15-30 lbs.).
(10) Connect negative battery cable to battery or
auxiliary jumper terminal.
(11) Start engine and check for leaks.
Fig. 11 Plastic Retainer Ring Type Fitting
1 ± FUEL TUBE
2 ± QUICK CONNECT FITTING
3 ± PUSH
4 ± PLASTIC RETAINER
5 ± PUSH
6 ± PUSH
7 ± PUSH
8 ± PUSH
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 11
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)