Regan Brown
It is possible to use the fuel pump to empty a gas tank, and many people have reported doing so. However, some people are hesitant to do this as the pump uses return fuel as a coolant, and without any fuel, the pump could run hot. Modern fuel pumps have a strainer on the bottom to keep sediment out, and most modern fuel dispensers have an on-board filter to remove junk before the fuel enters the filler pipe. Additionally, many modern fuel tanks are galvannealed, which inhibits rust, and fuel systems are sealed to keep moisture out.
Characteristics and values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is it possible to use the fuel pump to empty the gas tank? | Yes, it is possible to use the fuel pump to empty the gas tank, but it is not recommended as the pump uses return fuel as a coolant. |
| How to use the fuel pump to empty the gas tank | To empty the gas tank using the fuel pump, you can unclamp the return line under the car, or power the pump by jumping the wires or using a paperclip. |
| Safety concerns | It is important to note that running the fuel pump without return fuel can cause it to overheat. |
| Alternative methods | Alternative methods to empty the gas tank include diluting old gas with an additive and filling the rest of the tank with fresh fuel, or turning off the fuel line and running the carb empty. |
| Running a vehicle with an empty fuel tank | It is generally considered safe to run a modern vehicle with an empty fuel tank, as the tank and pump are designed to operate within a given envelope. |
| Fuel pump lifespan | The lifespan of a fuel pump is not directly related to running a vehicle on empty, and other factors are likely to be at play if a fuel pump fails when the tank is empty. |
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What You'll Learn
Using the fuel pump to empty the gas tank is possible
One way to empty the gas tank using the fuel pump is to jump the relay. This involves disconnecting the fuel line from the filter and using a paper clip or a piece of metal to connect the correct terminals. This method will allow you to pump the fuel into a gas can or bucket. It is important to exercise caution when handling fuel and to ensure proper ventilation.
Another method is to simply unclamp the return line under the car and allow the fuel to drain out using gravity. This method may not get every last drop of fuel, but it is safe and effective.
Additionally, modern fuel pumps have a strainer or "sock" at the bottom to keep sediment out, and fuel dispensers have onboard filters to remove junk before the fuel enters the filler pipe. This means that running the tank down to empty is less likely to cause issues with the fuel pump.
It is also worth noting that, contrary to popular belief, running a vehicle with a full load of fuel is not necessarily better for the fuel pump. In fact, modern fuel systems are designed to operate within a given envelope that includes running the tank down to empty.
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It is not recommended due to the risk of the pump overheating
It is technically possible to empty a gas tank using the fuel pump, and some people do this. However, it is not recommended due to the risk of the pump overheating.
The fuel pump uses return fuel as a coolant. If there is no return fuel, the pump will overheat. This is because the pump will continue to run even when the tank is empty, and without fuel to cool it down, the temperature of the pump will increase.
In addition, if the pump is old, there is a risk that running it without fuel could damage it. It is also important to note that even if the fuel pump is jumped, as some people suggest, to drain the tank, it will not keep running indefinitely. This is because the pump's running time is based on time and not pressure.
Therefore, while it is possible to use the fuel pump to empty a gas tank, it is not advisable due to the risk of pump overheating and potential damage. Alternative methods for draining a gas tank include simply using gravity by unclamping the return line under the car, or draining and dropping the tank, cleaning it, and replacing the pump.
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Modern fuel pumps have a strainer to keep sediment out
Modern fuel pumps have a strainer, sometimes called a "fuel pump filter", attached to the bottom of the pump to keep sediment and other contaminants out. This strainer is made of a very fine mesh material and is an integral part of the fuel pump assembly. It is not a moving part. The strainer is located inside the fuel tank, fitted over the fuel pick-up tube at the bottom of the fuel pump, where the fuel pump sucks in fuel from the tank.
The purpose of the strainer is to protect the pump and prolong its life by ensuring that only clean fuel enters the fuel pump. Over time, the fuel tank can get dirty and contaminated with impurities. If the strainer gets clogged with contaminants, it restricts the flow of fuel into the pump, causing the pump to work harder and eventually fail. Therefore, the strainer plays a crucial role in preventing fuel pump failure by trapping contaminants before they can enter the pump.
It is important to note that the strainer is different from the fuel filter, which is usually located in the fuel line between the tank and the engine in older cars. The fuel filter can be replaced separately, but the strainer is replaced along with the fuel pump as it is an integral part of the assembly.
While some people may be hesitant to run their fuel tank down to empty due to concerns about sucking up sediment and damaging the pump, modern fuel pumps with strainers and on-board filters in fuel dispensers address these issues. Additionally, the sediment in the tank settles at the bottom, and the pump is designed to sit low to utilize as much fuel as possible, regardless of the fuel level. Therefore, it is generally acceptable to use the entire capacity of the fuel tank in modern vehicles without worrying about damaging the fuel pump.
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Draining the tank using gravity is another option
If you don't have a pump but have a spare tube, you can try another method. Stick the tube into the gas tank, feeding it until there is only one to two feet left before the pump. Then, blow into the tube, pushing air into the tank, which will force the gas out of the other tube. Once the tank is empty, remove the tube and refill the tank.
It is important to note that some sources advise against using the fuel pump to empty the gas tank as it can cause the pump to run hot. If you choose to use the fuel pump, it is recommended to dilute old gas with an additive and fill the rest of the tank with fresh gas.
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Running a vehicle on empty is generally fine
While it is generally recommended to keep your fuel tank full, running a vehicle on empty is usually fine. Modern vehicles are designed to provide a warning when there is enough fuel for another 30 to 60 miles, and the warning is typically issued when there are about 2 to 4 gallons of fuel left in the tank. This amount of fuel is usually sufficient for the vehicle to be driven to a gas station for refuelling.
However, it is important to note that running a vehicle on empty can cause damage to the fuel pump, engine, and catalytic converter. The fuel pump is designed to function with a certain amount of fuel, and driving with low fuel can cause the pump to overheat due to insufficient fuel for cooling. Additionally, debris and sediment in the gas tank can settle at the bottom, and when the fuel level is low, the fuel pump may draw in this contaminated fuel, leading to a clogged fuel filter and reduced fuel flow to the engine.
To avoid these issues, it is recommended to refuel as soon as the low fuel warning light comes on. By taking proactive measures and refuelling before the warning light appears, you can help ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle's critical components.
While running a vehicle on empty occasionally may not cause immediate damage, making it a regular habit can reduce the lifespan of essential parts, leading to costly repairs in the long run. Therefore, it is advisable to maintain adequate fuel levels and take proactive refuelling measures to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can drain your tank using the fuel pump. However, it is not recommended as the pump uses return fuel as a coolant. Without return fuel, the pump may overheat.
Yes, you can unclamp the return line under the car and let gravity drain the tank.
No, modern fuel pumps are designed to work even when the tank is empty. The fuel pump sits at the bottom of the tank so it can utilize as much of the fuel in the tank as possible.
No, most modern fuel pumps have a strainer on the bottom to keep sediment out. Additionally, most modern fuel dispensers have an on-board filter to remove junk before the fuel enters the filler pipe.
A full fuel tank of treated fuel is best to displace moisture and keep oxidizing air out, preventing rust.
