Mercedes Mullins
In-tank fuel pumps are prone to failure, especially when running waste vegetable oil mixes or biofuel. While some people opt for external fuel pumps, which are larger and more powerful, others choose to replace the in-tank pump with a new, cheap pump. There are also options to convert an in-tank electric fuel pump to an external inline pump. In addition, auxiliary inline fuel pumps are available for diesel fuel systems. Some people have experimented with using gas fuel pumps for diesel, but it is unclear whether this is effective.
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What You'll Learn
Using an external pump to get a diesel engine running
If you are looking for a quick fix, you could try finding an older car with an external pump, such as an 80s/90s Mercedes V8-equipped car, which often had large externally mounted Bosch pumps. You could also look at the stock lift pump in a Ford Super Duty, which may work for a diesel application.
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, a diesel-driven self-priming pump might be an option. These are versatile, powerful, and durable, but they are also more expensive and require more maintenance than motor-operated pumps. They are also noisy and can cause environmental pollution due to the diesel engine.
When using an external pump, it is important to consider the application, capacity, head, and price. Additionally, regular maintenance is crucial, such as keeping the pump clean and free of debris, checking the belts and hoses, and changing the oil and filter as recommended by the manufacturer.
Finally, regardless of the type of pump you use, it is recommended to use a pre-pump screen and a post-pump filter to prolong the life of the pump and the diesel injection system.
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Replacing an in-tank pump with an inline pump
If you are looking to replace an in-tank pump with an inline pump, there are a few steps you need to follow. Firstly, it is important to note that external fuel pumps need to be significantly larger and more powerful than in-tank pumps. This means that if you are simply looking to get your vehicle running again, you may want to opt for a cheap in-tank replacement instead.
However, if you are set on installing an inline pump, you will first need to remove the defective in-tank pump. This process will vary depending on the vehicle, but generally involves removing the exhaust heat shield, hand brake cables, wiring clips, pipe clips, and the filler hose. Once the defective pump is accessible, you will need to remove the wiring and then the pump itself from its housing.
Next, you will need to install the inline pump. This will involve cutting a length of stiff steel wire and securing it to the plastic housing with cable ties. The hose will then need to be bent to allow fuel to enter freely and prevent blockages. Finally, the metal rod will need to be bent so that it slides into the pump housing with ease.
Once the new pump is installed, you will need to refill the tank with fuel and check for leaks. If all goes well, your new pump should work well and be easily accessible for future maintenance. It is worth noting that inline pumps may be noisier than in-tank pumps, but they are generally cheaper and quicker to replace.
It is important to note that running two inline pumps will not increase the flow at the same given pressure. To increase the actual flow capability, the pumps must be run in parallel. Additionally, the pressure output of the pumps will depend on the voltage they are run at.
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Running diesel in a gas fuel pump
Running diesel fuel in a gas fuel pump is possible, but it is not recommended. Gas is a solvent, and diesel is a lubricant, so there should not be any issues with mixing the two. However, diesel is harder on the pump due to its higher viscosity compared to gasoline, which can cause issues with the lift pump.
Lift pumps are crucial in ensuring the injector pump receives enough fuel. If the lift pump cannot feed the injector pump enough fuel, it will cause cavitation, heat up, and quickly destroy the injector pump. As such, it is important to ensure that the lift pump can supply sufficient fuel pressure and flow rate to the injector pump.
Some people have experimented with using different lift pumps on diesel engines. For example, one user reported success with a Holley Red pump as a lift pump on their dad's '01 24 valve, while another user had success with twin GSL392s in a diesel application for close to a year. However, it is important to note that the Holley Red pump only has a pressure of 5-7 psi, which may be too low for some diesel applications. The Holley Blue pump can provide up to 14 psi, but it is unclear if this is sufficient for all diesel engines.
It is recommended to use a pre-pump screen and a post-pump filter, regardless of the type of pump used. Additionally, some diesel engines may require a regulator to control fuel pressure. It is important to research and understand the specific requirements of your diesel engine before selecting a fuel pump to ensure compatibility and avoid potential issues.
While it may be tempting to use a cheap external fuel pump as a temporary solution, it is important to consider the limitations of such setups. External fuel pumps need to be significantly larger and more powerful than in-tank ones, and they may not be a long-lasting solution if they have to pull fuel through a dead pump.
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Using a lift pump on a diesel engine
A lift pump is an essential component of any diesel engine, ensuring the engine receives a consistent, clean supply of fuel to run efficiently and correctly. It is typically activated when the ignition is turned on, with the electric motor powering an impeller or diaphragm to create suction, drawing fuel from the tank. This fuel is then pressurised and forced towards the injection system, ensuring a steady supply of fuel throughout the engine's operation.
The lift pump plays a critical role in the functioning of a diesel engine, delivering fuel reliably and consistently, allowing the engine to operate at its best. It ensures a constant flow of fuel, preventing power loss or stalling, and helps maintain the correct fuel supply pressure. This is vital as the injection system relies on precise transfer pressure to deliver the right amount of fuel to the cylinders at the right time.
The lift pump also helps to remove any air or vapour from the fuel system, which is crucial as air or vapour can disrupt combustion and cause engine performance issues. Without a properly functioning lift pump, the engine's performance and efficiency would suffer.
There are different types of lift pumps available, such as mechanical or electric, and it is important to choose the right one for your engine's needs. For example, a gerotor pump, a type of positive displacement pump, uses two gears with different numbers of teeth to create a continuous flow of fluid. When selecting a lift pump, it is essential to consider the size and power of your diesel engine to ensure it can meet the engine's demands.
Proper maintenance of a lift pump is also crucial for its longevity and performance. This includes regularly checking for leaks and cracks in the fuel lines and fittings, keeping the fuel filters clean and replacing them as needed, and cleaning the exterior of the pump to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
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Modifying an in-tank electric fuel pump
Firstly, it is crucial to identify the type of vehicle and fuel pump you are working with. Different vehicles will have unique fuel pump setups, and it is important to understand the specific requirements and challenges of your particular vehicle.
Next, you will need to gain access to the fuel pump. This may involve jacking up the vehicle, draining the fuel, and removing various components such as the exhaust heat shield, hand brake cables, and bolts, as described by a Citroen Picasso owner. It is important to refer to your vehicle's manual or seek expert advice to ensure you are safely and correctly accessing the fuel pump.
Once you have accessed the fuel pump, you may need to modify the fuel pump's pickup hose and mounting bracket to ensure it fits within your fuel tank, as seen in a Cadillac example. This may involve shortening the hose, adjusting the bracket, or even using spacers to ensure the pump sits comfortably inside the tank.
When installing the fuel pump, it is crucial to consider the type of fuel and the specific requirements of your vehicle's engine. For example, diesel engines have different fuel pump requirements compared to gasoline engines. Additionally, ensuring the pump is securely fitted with cable ties or other appropriate fasteners is essential.
Finally, you will need to connect the fuel pump to the vehicle's fuel system. This may involve cutting and soldering fuel lines, ensuring proper fittings and adapters are used, and verifying that the fuel pump is compatible with the vehicle's electrical system.
It is worth noting that some vehicle owners have shared their experiences with converting in-tank fuel pumps to external inline pumps, which can be a complex process and may not be suitable for all vehicles. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic or automotive specialist before attempting any modifications to your vehicle's fuel system.
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