It is easier to access the lift pump with the doghouse removed but I have changed them out from the engine compartment side. It really doesn't take long to remove the doghouse and the inner engine cover. All the wires are plug ins and it goes back together quickly.

 

Matt is still in China. If he were around he could help you swap out the lift pump no time.

 

Thanks, 3hummers,

I put the doghouse back together for now; I'm still in the process of getting the insulation phase completed. I'll deal with the fuel pump questions at a future date. The problem is intermittent right now.

I had a big surprise when I tried to drive it yesterday PM. It had a 'clunk-clunk-clunk' sound when I started out, much like the sound of a flat tire. I looked all around underneath, to discover that the driver's side rear hub was leaking oil! After 2.5 hrs waiting for a tow truck, I finally got it to the local Goodyear shop (Grapevine, TX) that has done work on many of my vehicles for years. I intend to get them the manual giving specifics on how to work on the H1; I'm inclined to think that they can handle it, given the proper guidance.

I got in touch with Matt a few days ago via email. We'll get together for dinner, etc., when he gets back, if his schedule allows...

 

Just an update on the H1 breakdown:
I met the mechanic at the Goodyear store this morning; he sounds like a good one. His experience has been with diesels and H1s in a few dealerships, and he seems quite enthusiastic. It is encouraging. I gave him the CD version of the H1 manual for reference, so it sounds like we're off to a good start...