Can I remove the HPOP without removing the reservoir?

[parks_pop]

I am starting some upgrades on my 1996 Powerstroke and I think I've hit a snag. I am ordering stage 1 injectors so I was going to swap out my HPOP for a 17*. When I went to remove the reservoir I noticed one of the 10mm bolts on top had some rounded edges. I don't think I can remove it without stripping it.
Can I change the HPOP without removing the reservoir and if so it is a major PITA? I am a novice mechanic at best but I'm willing to take the time necessary.

HELP??

[CT Performance, Inc.]

A 17* pump will drop in you don't have to remove anything to install it except just to remove it..first take off the front inspection cover and take out the bolt..

[parks_pop]

Originally Posted by CT Performance, Inc.

A 17* pump will drop in you don't have to remove anything to install it except just to remove it..first take off the front inspection cover and take out the bolt..

What about the gears? I won't be able to see them. How do I make sure they are set correctly? If this is so easy why do all of the instructions I've seen say to remove the reservoir?

[ajpu1983]

The front bolt holds the gear to the pump so by taking it out you can leave the gear in place and install a new pump and torque the bolt down and everything's good.

[Cratos]

how did you round off the head it is only @ 14 ft lbs

[Fordman247365]

Originally Posted by Cratos

how did you round off the head it is only @ 14 ft lbs

He didnt round it off, he said he saw that it had rounded edges and doesnt want to take a chance with it.

[STROKE_THIS_F-250]

I think for a person that has not done it before you could leave the reservoir on, but it could be pretty easy to loose the gear or not have it lined up correctly. I would take time to get the reservoir off and replace with new bolt.

[parks_pop]

Originally Posted by STROKE_THIS_F-250

I think for a person that has not done it before you could leave the reservoir on, but it could be pretty easy to loose the gear or not have it lined up correctly. I would take time to get the reservoir off and replace with new bolt.

Yeah that's what I'm afraid of. I have sprayed the bolt in question with PB Blaster a few times and have let it sit for a couple of days. Maybe that will help enough so it won't strip. If these were only supposed to be torqued to 14 lbs I must have a different idea as to what 14 lbs is. The other 10mm bolts were pretty darn tight.

Any way to know if the gear is "lost" or not sitting right without removing the reservoir?

[parks_pop]

BTT

I need more input. I have the front cover off but I still can't get reservoir off. Do I need to drain anything?
How can I help from "losing" the gear without taking the reservoir off?

[ajpu1983]

It would be hard to "lose" the gear when I do it i just remove the fuel filter housing, the HPOP lines, the front inspection plate, the 18mm bolt and washer, and the 2 mounting bolts. Then pull the pump out.