Where is the fuel pressure regulator on a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?
In this model, the fuel pressure regulator is not mounted on the engine or along the fuel rail. It resides inside the fuel pump module in the fuel tank, part of Ford’s returnless fuel system for the 2001 Explorer Sport Trac.
The regulator’s location reflects Ford’s approach to maintaining consistent fuel pressure: the engine’s fuel pressure is controlled by the pump and the powertrain control module (PCM) rather than an external regulator at the engine. As a result, service typically involves the fuel pump assembly itself rather than a separate, easily replaceable regulator component.
Location and system design
Below is a concise guide to where the regulator sits and how the returnless system affects access and maintenance.
- Location: inside the fuel pump module located in the fuel tank.
- System design: returnless fuel system; no separate regulator on the engine or fuel rail.
- Accessibility: the regulator is not intended to be serviced as a standalone part; replacement usually means replacing the entire fuel pump assembly.
- Pressure control: the PCM modulates pump output to maintain the correct rail pressure rather than relying on an external regulator.
In practice, this means that troubleshooting and replacement work related to regulator issues generally involve the fuel pump assembly in the tank rather than components under the hood.
Diagnosis and maintenance tips
Because the regulator is inside the tank, diagnosing fuel pressure issues requires using the appropriate tools and understanding the returnless setup. The following guidance outlines typical steps and considerations.
- Check the official fuel pressure spec for your exact engine (usually around 39–45 psi for many 4.0L examples). Refer to the service manual for the precise figure.
- Relieve fuel system pressure and disconnect the battery before working on the fuel system to prevent injury or fire risk.
- To diagnose regulator-related symptoms, measure rail pressure with a suitable fuel pressure gauge; if pressure is consistently out of spec, the issue is often with the pump module rather than a separate regulator.
- If pressure is incorrect and there are no electrical faults to the pump, the typical repair is replacing the entire fuel pump module in the tank.
- Inspect related components (fuel filter, wiring to the fuel pump, and the fuel pressure sensor if present) as part of comprehensive diagnosis.
Note: Accessing and replacing the fuel pump module requires caution and may involve dropping the fuel tank. If you’re not experienced with fuel-system work, consider professional service to avoid fire hazards and ensure proper sealing and reassembly.
Summary
The fuel pressure regulator on a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is built into the fuel pump module inside the fuel tank as part of a returnless fuel system. There is no conventional external regulator on the engine or fuel rail. When regulator-related issues are suspected, the common remedy is replacement of the entire fuel pump module rather than a standalone regulator, with diagnostics focusing on rail pressure and pump electrical performance. Always follow safety procedures and consult the vehicle’s service manual or a qualified technician for precise specifications and procedures.
