Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

2002 TJ Fuel Injector Damper Replacement

jdh2ocrzy

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Nov 2, 2022
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The fuel injector damper just started leaking on my 4.0L. I've see some pops and buzzes about the o-ring leaking, but nothing with the actual damper leaking. It appeared it was just leaking from the o-ring inserted into the fuel rail at first. Looking into the manual it advises that it's not a serviceable item and an entire fuel rail replacement is north of $130. So, I just figured the o-ring is the same as the fuel injector O-rings. Picked up the FEL-PRO ES 70599 Fuel Injector O-Ring Kit (4 qty.) that was in stock at the local Autozone. Now, pulling that damper is kind of a trick since it has five metal prongs around it and reaching them without removing the entire fuel rail is process. But, after slowly bending the prongs back (one by one) with standard screw driver and rotating the damper, I was able to eventually remove it. And, yes, the injector o-rings are identical to the damper o-ring in size!!

I first removed the old o-ring and, what I thought, was carefully bending back the prongs. I then lubed up the new o-ring with automotive silicon grease and easily installed it on the damper. Now, installing the damper....well... dang it.... damper install into the fuel rail is tough. I wasn't strong enough to press it back into the fuel rail by hand and had to use a medium sized channel lock plier. I did wrap the clamps of the pliers with some vinyl tape to prevent damage to the rail and damper and eventually popped it back in.

But now, upon starting the motor, I can observe active leaking from the damper. Basically, where the top half of the damper meets the bottom portion.

So, in search of a replace damper. Well, there's no part number in the parts manual. I did locate a seller "Injector Planet" on eBay and has a direct online store that has two refurbished dampers with part manufacturing numbers of Chrysler 53013455AA and 04591758AA?? But, the seller does have a "vehicle" compatibility chart listed on eBay. But, on is direct website there is a break down of listed vehicle "engines" which specifically lists Chrysler 53013455AA under the Powertech 4.0L motor. So, I'm confident that this damper will work for my application. Although, I bought the damper from the seller's eBay account at $55. It's about ten dollars more than the direct website, but I wanted eBay's third party reassurance in case some not right. But, the seller does state a 60 day return policy and 1 year warranty on both sites.

My question. Has anyone actually "bought" a replacement remanufactured dampers and replaced them on their existing fuel rail any luck? I haven't seen any threads on this other than o-ring replacement? Also, has anyone on here actually bought this damper from this seller? I'd like some input, to see if this is a waste of time and money and just pony up to the actual fuel rail replacement.

Side note. I can get the fuel rail for $160 through Amazon in two days. The damper, somewhere in a week. The TJ is a daily runner when its working, but I do have my truck to use.

JD
 
The fuel injector damper just started leaking on my 4.0L. I've see some pops and buzzes about the o-ring leaking, but nothing with the actual damper leaking. It appeared it was just leaking from the o-ring inserted into the fuel rail at first. Looking into the manual it advises that it's not a serviceable item and an entire fuel rail replacement is north of $130. So, I just figured the o-ring is the same as the fuel injector O-rings. Picked up the FEL-PRO ES 70599 Fuel Injector O-Ring Kit (4 qty.) that was in stock at the local Autozone. Now, pulling that damper is kind of a trick since it has five metal prongs around it and reaching them without removing the entire fuel rail is process. But, after slowly bending the prongs back (one by one) with standard screw driver and rotating the damper, I was able to eventually remove it. And, yes, the injector o-rings are identical to the damper o-ring in size!!

I first removed the old o-ring and, what I thought, was carefully bending back the prongs. I then lubed up the new o-ring with automotive silicon grease and easily installed it on the damper. Now, installing the damper....well... dang it.... damper install into the fuel rail is tough. I wasn't strong enough to press it back into the fuel rail by hand and had to use a medium sized channel lock plier. I did wrap the clamps of the pliers with some vinyl tape to prevent damage to the rail and damper and eventually popped it back in.

But now, upon starting the motor, I can observe active leaking from the damper. Basically, where the top half of the damper meets the bottom portion.

So, in search of a replace damper. Well, there's no part number in the parts manual. I did locate a seller "Injector Planet" on eBay and has a direct online store that has two refurbished dampers with part manufacturing numbers of Chrysler 53013455AA and 04591758AA?? But, the seller does have a "vehicle" compatibility chart listed on eBay. But, on is direct website there is a break down of listed vehicle "engines" which specifically lists Chrysler 53013455AA under the Powertech 4.0L motor. So, I'm confident that this damper will work for my application. Although, I bought the damper from the seller's eBay account at $55. It's about ten dollars more than the direct website, but I wanted eBay's third party reassurance in case some not right. But, the seller does state a 60 day return policy and 1 year warranty on both sites.

My question. Has anyone actually "bought" a replacement remanufactured dampers and replaced them on their existing fuel rail any luck? I haven't seen any threads on this other than o-ring replacement? Also, has anyone on here actually bought this damper from this seller? I'd like some input, to see if this is a waste of time and money and just pony up to the actual fuel rail replacement.

Side note. I can get the fuel rail for $160 through Amazon in two days. The damper, somewhere in a week. The TJ is a daily runner when its working, but I do have my truck to use.

JD

Regarding your question about remanufactured dampers, I haven’t personally dealt with that seller, but there have been a few users in the forums who have taken the plunge on aftermarket or reman dampers with mixed results. Some had success with dampers that worked just fine after installation, while others experienced leaks soon after.

I think you're smart to weigh the warranty and return policy into the decision. With the 60-day return and 1-year warranty, it does offer some peace of mind. I'd recommend checking the reviews on the seller as well to see if anyone mentions their experience with those specific dampers.

If you decide to go the reman route, make sure to thoroughly inspect the damper upon arrival before installation—look for any signs of wear or damage.

On the other hand, if you can swing it and the fuel rail replacement isn’t too much of a burden, it might save you some headaches down the line. A new fuel rail would likely provide more reliability than a reman piece.

In the end, it comes down to how soon you need your TJ back on the road and how much you're willing to gamble on the remanufactured option. Many find that when they invest in quality parts upfront, they save money and time in the long run. I'm one of those people who firmly believes in the motto, "buy once, cry once". I like to do it right the first time.
 
Regarding your question about remanufactured dampers, I haven’t personally dealt with that seller, but there have been a few users in the forums who have taken the plunge on aftermarket or reman dampers with mixed results. Some had success with dampers that worked just fine after installation, while others experienced leaks soon after.

I think you're smart to weigh the warranty and return policy into the decision. With the 60-day return and 1-year warranty, it does offer some peace of mind. I'd recommend checking the reviews on the seller as well to see if anyone mentions their experience with those specific dampers.

If you decide to go the reman route, make sure to thoroughly inspect the damper upon arrival before installation—look for any signs of wear or damage.

On the other hand, if you can swing it and the fuel rail replacement isn’t too much of a burden, it might save you some headaches down the line. A new fuel rail would likely provide more reliability than a reman piece.

In the end, it comes down to how soon you need your TJ back on the road and how much you're willing to gamble on the remanufactured option. Many find that when they invest in quality parts upfront, they save money and time in the long run. I'm one of those people who firmly believes in the motto, "buy once, cry once". I like to do it right the first time.

Well... The damper arrived and leaked immediately on installation. So... bought the crown fuel rail and it arrived early enough to install it today.

Lesson learned I guess... At least I can return the damper and get a refund.

Thanks for the help.
 
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Regarding your question about remanufactured dampers, I haven’t personally dealt with that seller, but there have been a few users in the forums who have taken the plunge on aftermarket or reman dampers with mixed results. Some had success with dampers that worked just fine after installation, while others experienced leaks soon after.

I think you're smart to weigh the warranty and return policy into the decision. With the 60-day return and 1-year warranty, it does offer some peace of mind. I'd recommend checking the reviews on the seller as well to see if anyone mentions their experience with those specific dampers.

If you decide to go the reman route, make sure to thoroughly inspect the damper upon arrival before installation—look for any signs of wear or damage.

On the other hand, if you can swing it and the fuel rail replacement isn’t too much of a burden, it might save you some headaches down the line. A new fuel rail would likely provide more reliability than a reman piece.

In the end, it comes down to how soon you need your TJ back on the road and how much you're willing to gamble on the remanufactured option. Many find that when they invest in quality parts upfront, they save money and time in the long run. I'm one of those people who firmly believes in the motto, "buy once, cry once". I like to do it right the first time.

Chris!​


Thanks for your help. I returned the damper and was quickly issued a refund.. The Crown fuel rail was installed easily and quickly installed. It also has been working leak free so far!! I didn't replace the fuel injectors though. I looked into it, but quality ones where crazy expense for me right now. I did replace the O-rings.

Here's a link, if I didn't post it before, for those with the same problem and try to attempt a damper replacement. https://www.ebay.com/itm/2547932081...pid=5337789113&customid=&toolid=10001&mkevt=1

Luckily I'm retired and have other vehicle's to use and had the time to "roll the dice" on a used damper. But, yeah, I leaning towards, "buy once, cry once" from now on. !!!

Thanks again Chris.

JD
 
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Just a thought, don't use silicone grease on anything involving the fuel system. Silicone doesn't play nice with oxygen injectors. Regular grease is fine.
 
Just a thought, don't use silicone grease on anything involving the fuel system. Silicone doesn't play nice with oxygen injectors. Regular grease is fine.

A little late to the party buddy. Thanks for help?
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts