Sylvie Willis
The placement of an electric fuel pump in relation to the fuel tank is a topic that has been discussed by many car enthusiasts. Some recommend mounting the pump as close to the tank as possible, with varying opinions on whether it should be above or below the fuel level. While some argue that keeping the pump below the fuel level improves priming and efficiency, others claim that modern electric fuel pumps can effectively push fuel regardless of height. However, it is generally agreed that placing the pump too high might cause problems with priming and efficiency.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation | Electric fuel pumps should be installed as close to the tank as possible. |
| Height | The pump does not necessarily have to be lower than the tank, but it should be between the top and bottom of the liquid fuel load of the fuel cell. |
| Mounting | The pump can be mounted vertically or horizontally, but keeping the suction line as short as possible is ideal. |
| Efficiency | Mounting the pump lower and closer to the liquid fuel load may improve efficiency by reducing the chance of cavitation and improving the gravity feed on the suction side. |
| Priming | A lower mount may help keep the pump primed due to the siphon effect. |
| Distance | There is a trade-off between mounting the pump close to the tank and mounting it lower towards the fuel load. |
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What You'll Learn
- Electric fuel pumps should ideally be mounted as close to the tank as possible
- The pump does not have to be below the fuel tank, but it should be below the fuel level
- Keeping the pump lower helps with priming and reduces the chance of cavitation
- A sump tank can be used to trap fuel and keep the pump covered
- Inline pumps are easier and cheaper, especially with a carb setup
Electric fuel pumps should ideally be mounted as close to the tank as possible
However, mounting the pump lower and closer to the liquid fuel load can increase efficiency. This is because the pump will receive a good gravity feed on the suction side, and the fuel can be pulled faster and stronger than gravity can assist. Additionally, keeping the pump portion below the fuel level will reduce the chance of cavitating the pump, as it will not have to work as hard to move the fuel.
Some pump manufacturers recommend installing the pump vertically and mounting it below the gas tank if possible. However, this may not always be feasible, especially in vehicles with the tank under the bed. In such cases, it is recommended to build a bracket that puts the pump beside the tank, ensuring that it is almost as low as the fuel level.
It is worth noting that while mounting the pump higher may not cause any prime or flow problems, it might not be as efficient as a lower-mounted pump. Ultimately, the decision on where to mount the electric fuel pump depends on the specific vehicle and its setup, and there may be trade-offs to consider with each approach.
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The pump does not have to be below the fuel tank, but it should be below the fuel level
However, mounting the pump lower, or closer to the fuel load, will make the pump more efficient. This is because the pump will get a good gravity feed on the suction side. Keeping the tank full also helps with this.
While it is possible to mount the pump higher than the fuel tank, this setup may cause the pump to work harder to move the fuel, which could lead to poor performance and premature failure.
For example, one user on a forum reported that their fuel pump was 12" above the sump outlet, and while it worked, they noted that they had only driven the car 400 miles in the 7 years they owned it.
Therefore, it is recommended to mount the electric fuel pump as close to the tank as possible and, if possible, lower than the fuel tank and fuel level.
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Keeping the pump lower helps with priming and reduces the chance of cavitation
Electric fuel pumps should ideally be installed as close to the tank as possible, and if possible, lower than the tank. Keeping the pump lower helps with priming and reduces the chance of cavitation.
Firstly, a lower pump location helps with priming because electric pumps push fuel better than they pull it. A pump mounted lower and closer to the liquid fuel load will be more efficient. This is because the pump gets a good gravity feed on the suction side, which helps to keep the pump primed.
Secondly, keeping the pump lower can reduce the chance of cavitation. Cavitation is the formation and accumulation of bubbles around a pump impeller, which can cause high-energy shock waves and erosion effects. This can be caused by a drop in static pressure, particularly as the fluid interacts with pump components. Installing the pump below the water level of the supply tank can prevent cavitation by using the force of gravity to maintain flooded suction. This helps to ensure that the pump housing is flooded and that the water flows into the pump suction inlet smoothly.
Additionally, good piping layouts can also help to prevent cavitation by maintaining constant velocity. Obstructions in piping layouts can affect flow velocity, which changes fluid pressure and can lead to cavitation. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the piping design meets standards and that the pump is installed as close as possible to the fluid source.
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A sump tank can be used to trap fuel and keep the pump covered
The placement of an electric fuel pump is crucial for optimal performance. While it is not necessary for the pump to be positioned lower than the fuel tank, keeping the pump close to the tank is generally recommended. This is because electric pumps tend to push fuel more effectively than pulling it, and a shorter suction line reduces potential flow problems.
However, some pump manufacturers recommend installing the pump below the fuel level to reduce the chance of cavitation and improve efficiency. This is because the pump's intake sits in a reservoir of fuel, eliminating the need to lift the fuel. Additionally, mounting the pump lower can help keep it primed due to the siphoning effect.
In some cases, a sump tank can be utilised to enhance the fuel delivery system. A sump tank, or sump within the main tank, serves as a reservoir to trap fuel and ensure the pump remains covered. This setup can be particularly beneficial in maintaining consistent fuel supply to the pump, especially when the fuel level in the main tank drops. By having the pump lowered into a sump, the intake can consistently draw fuel, reducing the chances of air entering the system and improving overall pump performance.
Furthermore, a sump tank can also provide other advantages. For instance, it can help dampen pump vibrations, leading to a quieter operation. Additionally, in the event of a collision or sudden movement, a sump tank can act as a safety measure by containing any potential fuel leakage.
While a sump tank offers these benefits, it is important to consider the size of the pump and fuel filter when designing the system. In some cases, the combined size of the pump and filter may limit the available space within the sump, impacting its effectiveness. Therefore, careful planning is necessary to ensure the sump tank is adequately sized and positioned to accommodate the pump and its components.
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Inline pumps are easier and cheaper, especially with a carb setup
Electric fuel pumps can be installed either inside the fuel tank or outside it. They are easier to install outside the tank, but they can be installed inside the tank if the tank is removed. Inline pumps are easier to install and cheaper, especially with a carb setup. They are also more efficient at pushing fuel than pulling it, so it is recommended to mount them low and close to the tank.
There are a variety of inline electric fuel pumps available for carburetors, with prices ranging from $47 to $212. The cheapest option is the Walbro pump, which can be purchased on Amazon for $47. The Carter #4070 is another good option, priced at around $65. It has been a proven design for over 40 years and is much quieter than other pumps. The Edelbrock pump is also a good choice, priced at $212, but it is much more expensive.
The Mr. Gasket pump is another option, but it has received mixed reviews. Some users have reported failures with this pump, while others have said it worked well for them. It is also important to consider the flow rate and pressure requirements of your engine when selecting a fuel pump. For example, the Walbro GSL392 pump can provide a flow rate of up to 350hp, but it requires a return line to regulate the pressure.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some users have reported noise issues with inline electric fuel pumps. The rubber clamp mounts can help reduce the noise, but it can still be heard from a distance. Building an insulated box around the pump can help mitigate this issue.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is recommended that an electric fuel pump is installed lower than the gas tank if possible. This is because electric pumps push fuel better than they pull it, so keeping the pump lower will reduce the chance of cavitating the pump and improve efficiency.
If your electric fuel pump is higher than the tank, it may still work, but the pump will have to work harder to move the fuel. This may result in reduced efficiency.
Yes, installing an electric fuel pump lower than the tank can improve the pump's performance by allowing for a good gravity feed on the suction side. Additionally, keeping the pump lower will reduce the chance of cavitation and improve the pump's efficiency.
