Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) How many have changed their own VP-44 THEMSELVES?

[Motorhead]

I have two friends with the dreaded P0216 code. One is a '99 and the other is a '02. The '02 only has 44,000miles on it. Everyone that I know that bought a new '02 had to replace their VP-44.
I have read the factory shop manual (saved them when I sold my '01. 5) and it doesn't look like a real big deal. I have changed several Bosch rotary VE pumps and timed them. Any hassles on doing the VP-44?

I am now in the third gen pages mostly now as I have an '07,5. 9,G56,4x4 but I still work on alot of 1st and second gen trucks. I just have never changed out an injection pump on a 24v.

Who sells the best STOCK VP-44?

 

[SBall]

Highly recommend Blue Chip

While not an auto mechanic by trade, I know how to tighten the ol-nuts, and have a respectable set or wrenches. When it came to replacing the VP44, Chip at Blue Chip Diesel Performance Specialists offered me the tips I needed to have the confidence to do the job. He also provided a loaner puller. His pumps are also very highly regarded for their reliability.

 

[Mishkaya]

It's not that difficult really. There is a video on youtube (5 part series). Search for diesel dan vp44 and you will find it no problem. There are a few tricks to be aware of to make things easier, but all in all it's not that hard. Good luck

 

[BDaugherty]

VP swaps are easy. It doesn't take any really special tools or knowledge. For a first timer, the directions and gear puller from Blue Chip are top notch. The tip about gluing the woodruff key into the slot is also very smart.

 

[DFerverda]

Here is the link to diesel dan's video. If the pump comes loose without any problem, it is a breeze.
YouTube - VP-44 Install and Removal Series 1 of 5
Keep track of the # of the video, they are not in order near the middle.
Dirk

 

[Motorhead]

Thanks Guys!

 

[JayStraight]

I swapped mine in the driveway and it was really simple. I watched the videos and had a step-by-step instructions to follow along with. On a scale from 1 to 10 (1 being the easiest) I would rate this repair as a 4-5. You really have to line up the key and slot carefully! I also borrowed the puller tool from Blue Chip Diesel (where the pump came from).

 

[SRadke]

Did my first one in 3 hours in the dark with a flashlight in my teeth.

-Scott

 

[MVieira]

I did mine myself also. It is fairly easy. My VP44 in my '02 popped the PO216 code with some dead peddle. I found out later that the brass advance piston sleeve, that was used in those vintage Bosch pumps, was already worn badly with only 31,000 miles in the truck. The only thing to really watch for is having the shaft key at 12 o'clock and make sure you don't push the key out when you install the new pump. The key isn't very tight in the groove. Not trying to scare you but you need to be careful. I double checked mine was still in place with a flash light and an o-ring pick. I also was able to use a harmonic balancer puller that I already had with some metric bolts to pull the gear. Regards, Mike.

 

[Koa Man]

I changed mine and although time consuming, it wasn't difficult and I am not a mechanic by trade. Not anymore difficult than swapping a camshaft on a V-8.

 

[Fishin Guide]

I've done lots of 'em.



Use a cheapo gear puller with the center cut down slightly. Way better than those disc pieces of junk!



Dave

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

See TDR Issue 51, p. 96 for procedures and photos to help you change the VP44 injection pump.