Mercedes Mullins
Riding mower fuel pumps can experience repeated failures due to ethanol in modern fuel, which can cause issues with the pulse hose and fuel pump diaphragm. This can result in the fuel pump providing too much gas or not enough. To resolve this issue, you can replace the mechanical pulse-activated pump with an electric fuel pump or use ethanol-free gasoline. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain the fuel pump to prevent issues and ensure the proper functioning of the riding mower.
Can a riding mower fuel pump pump too much gas?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for fuel pump usage | Gas tank is mounted lower than the carburetor and gravity cannot be relied on to carry gas through the fuel line |
| Fuel pump body composition | Plastic or metal |
| Pressure development | Vacuum in the crankcase or off the intake manifold, created by the motion of the piston and the operation of the crankcase breather |
| Fuel pump location | Mounted on the carburetor, near the fuel tank or between the tank and carburetor |
| Fuel pump issues | Repeated failures of the pulse hose and the fuel pump diaphragm due to ethanol in modern fuel |
| Possible solutions | Use ethanol-free fuel, pipe in a fuel pressure gauge to check pump output pressure, or replace the mechanical pulse-activated pump with an electric fuel pump |
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What You'll Learn
Causes of fuel pump issues
Fuel pump issues in riding mowers can be caused by various factors, and it is important to identify the root cause to ensure effective resolution. Here are some common causes of fuel pump problems:
Ethanol in Modern Fuel: One of the primary causes of fuel pump issues is the presence of ethanol in modern fuel. Repeated failures of the pulse hose and the fuel pump diaphragm are often attributed to ethanol-blended fuels. Switching to ethanol-free gasoline or using fuel with Marine Sta-Bil for small engines can help eliminate this problem.
Fuel Line Obstruction: Sometimes, the fuel line connecting the tank to the filter may become obstructed, restricting the flow of fuel and causing pump issues. Checking for obstructions and ensuring the fuel line is clear can help address this problem.
Low Fuel Pressure: Low fuel pressure can be a contributing factor to fuel pump problems. Installing a fuel pressure gauge between the pump and the carb inlet can help diagnose this issue. If the pressure is found to be low, it may indicate an issue with the fuel pump's performance.
Carburetor Issues: In some cases, fuel pump problems may be linked to issues with the carburetor. Cleaning the carburetor and ensuring it is functioning properly can help determine if it is the cause of the fuel pump issues.
Fuel Filter Clogging: A clogged fuel filter can lead to fuel pump problems by restricting the flow of fuel and causing pressure build-up. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the fuel filter can help prevent this issue.
It is important to note that fuel pump issues can arise from a combination of these factors, and a comprehensive diagnosis is necessary to identify the specific cause(s) and implement the appropriate solutions.
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How to check for damage
If your riding mower fuel pump is pumping too much gas, there are several steps you can take to check for damage and attempt to rectify the issue.
Firstly, if there is no fuel valve, you must stop the flow of gas using a fuel line clamp. Loosen the mounting screws and carefully remove the pump from the mounting bracket or carburetor. Check the pump for hairline cracks and other damage to its external surfaces. If there is noticeable damage, the pump should be discarded and replaced.
With the fuel valve closed or the line clamped, remove the mounting screws and disconnect the fuel hoses using needle-nose pliers to loosen the clips. Once the screws are removed, you can disassemble the pump and inspect the body for cracks or other signs of damage. Soak metal parts in an all-purpose parts cleaner for up to 15 minutes.
After cleaning, carefully examine the hoses for cracks, softening, or hardening, and replace any worn or faulty parts. Old gaskets, diaphragms, and springs should be discarded and replaced with parts from an original manufacturer's repair kit.
Finally, install the new diaphragm, gasket, and cover, securing them with pump screws. Tighten the screws with a torque wrench and attach the pump to the carburetor or mounting bracket using the appropriate mounting screws. It is important to always run the engine after installing a new pump or performing a repair to ensure there are no leaks.
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Fixing vs. replacing the pump
If your riding mower is pumping too much gas, it may be time to inspect and potentially replace the fuel pump. Here is some information on fixing versus replacing the pump:
Fixing the Pump
Firstly, turn off the fuel valve at the base of the tank, where the fuel line is attached. If there is no fuel valve, use a fuel line clamp to stop the gas flow. Loosen the mounting screws and remove the pump from the mounting bracket or carburettor. Check the pump for hairline cracks or other damage, especially on metal-bodied pumps. If the pump is damaged, it should be discarded and replaced.
When removing the pump, disconnect the fuel hoses using needle-nose pliers to loosen the clips. Disassemble the pump and inspect the body for cracks or other damage. Soak metal parts in an all-purpose parts cleaner for up to 15 minutes. Check the hoses for cracks, softening, or hardening, and replace any faulty parts.
Replacing the Pump
If your pump has a round shape, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced. When installing a new pump, place the diaphragm spring and the cup over the centre of the pump chamber, inserting a valve spring as well. Install the diaphragm, gasket, and cover, then attach them with pump screws. Tighten the screws with a torque wrench. Finally, attach the pump to the carburettor or mounting bracket using the pump mounting screws.
For more detailed guidance on replacing the pump, you can refer to the Fuel Pump Replacement PDF provided by the pump manufacturer. Additionally, consider consulting a local dealer or your Small Engine Manual for further assistance.
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Fuel pump installation
Fuel pumps are used when the gas tank is mounted lower than the carburetor, and gravity cannot be relied on to carry gas through the fuel line. Fuel pumps with plastic or metal bodies develop pressure using the vacuum in the crankcase, which is created by the motion of the piston.
- Turn off the fuel valve at the base of the tank where the fuel line is attached. If there is no fuel valve, stop the flow of gas with a fuel line clamp.
- Loosen the mounting screws and remove the pump from the mounting bracket or carburetor.
- Check for hairline cracks and other damage on the external surfaces of the pump. If it is damaged and has a metal body, discard the pump and replace it.
- With the fuel valve closed or the line clamped, remove the mounting screws.
- Disconnect the fuel hoses using needle-nose pliers to loosen the clips.
- Remove the screws and disassemble or replace the pump.
- Inspect the body for cracks or other damage. Soak metal parts in an all-purpose parts cleaner for up to 15 minutes.
- Check the hoses for cracks, softening, or hardening, and replace any worn parts.
- Discard old gaskets, diaphragms, and springs, and replace them with parts from an original manufacturer's repair kit.
It is important to note that different pumps may have some variants in part configuration, but these basic instructions can guide you through installing a replacement fuel pump. Additionally, it is recommended to use ethanol-free fuel with Marine Sta-Bil for small engines, as it eliminates many issues caused by ethanol in modern fuel.
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Fuel pump maintenance
Fuel pumps are used when the gas tank is mounted lower than the carburettor, and gravity cannot be relied on to carry gas through the fuel line. Fuel pump maintenance is important to ensure the efficient functioning of your riding mower. Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions for maintaining and troubleshooting your fuel pump:
Troubleshooting and Maintenance:
- Turn off the fuel valve at the base of the tank, where the fuel line is attached. If there is no valve, use a fuel line clamp to stop the gas flow.
- Loosen the mounting screws and carefully remove the pump from the mounting bracket or carburettor.
- Inspect the pump for any hairline cracks or other damage on its external surfaces.
- If the pump is damaged and has a metal body, discard it and perform a fuel pump replacement.
- With the fuel supply stopped, remove the mounting screws and disconnect the fuel hoses using needle-nose pliers to loosen the clips.
- Disassemble the pump and inspect its internal components for cracks or other damage.
- Soak any metal parts in an all-purpose parts cleaner for up to 15 minutes.
- Check the fuel hoses for signs of degradation, such as cracks, softening, or hardening. Replace any worn or faulty parts with original manufacturer components.
- Discard and replace old gaskets, diaphragms, and springs with parts from a manufacturer's repair kit.
Preventative Maintenance:
- Use ethanol-free fuel with Marine Sta-Bil for small engines to eliminate common issues caused by ethanol in modern fuel.
- Consider installing an electric fuel pump, as they have a lower pressure range compared to mechanical pulse-activated pumps, which may be more suitable for small engines.
By following these maintenance and troubleshooting steps, you can help ensure the reliable operation of your riding mower's fuel pump and avoid potential issues caused by fuel pump malfunctions.
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