Adjusting Fuel Pressure: Tuning Your Kirban Regulator

The Kirban Adjustable Fuel Pressure Regulator is a popular choice for car enthusiasts, especially those with Ford Mustangs. It is designed to closely resemble the factory fuel pressure regulator in format and size, allowing it to work with a wide range of aftermarket intakes. The regulator is adjustable from 30-100 psi and includes a manifold vacuum/boost port. To adjust the fuel pressure, a fuel pressure gauge should first be attached to the Schrader valve. The fuel pressure can then be adjusted using a 1/8 Allen wrench, with turning the adjustment screw to the right increasing pressure and turning it to the left decreasing pressure.

Locate the Schrader valve

To adjust a Kirban fuel pressure regulator, the first step is to locate the Schrader valve. This is important as it allows you to relieve the fuel pressure in the fuel line. The Schrader valve is a crucial component of the regulator and is used to adjust the fuel pressure.

The Schrader valve will look similar to a tire valve stem. It is usually located near the firewall or directly on the fuel rail. To find it, follow the fuel line from the injectors. Once you have located the valve, use a small flat-head screwdriver to depress the centre pin and relieve the fuel pressure. It is important to have a shop towel or a rag over the area to catch any escaping fuel.

The Schrader valve is a key part of the Kirban fuel pressure regulator, and it is important to know how to locate and use it properly. It is used to adjust the fuel pressure in the regulator, and it is similar in design to a tire valve stem. This similarity in design makes it easy to identify and use. The valve is located near the fuel rail, which is the metal tube that carries fuel to the injectors. By adjusting the Schrader valve, you can control the flow of fuel and ensure that the regulator is functioning properly.

The Kirban fuel pressure regulator is a popular choice for many car enthusiasts, and its small and lightweight design sets it apart from other aftermarket regulators. Its design closely resembles the factory fuel pressure regulator in format and size, allowing it to work with a wide range of aftermarket intakes. The regulator is also boost-referenced, with pressure rising at a 1:1 ratio with positive pressure, making it perfect for stock replacements or boosted applications.

Find the stock fuel pressure regulator

To find the stock fuel pressure regulator, first locate the Schrader valve on your application. It looks similar to a tire valve stem. If you follow the fuel line from the injectors, you will most likely locate it near the firewall or directly on the fuel rail.

Then, locate the stock fuel pressure regulator. This will most likely be attached to the fuel rail. It will have a small black vacuum line coming from the top. In the picture, it is the brass-coloured item on the left near the intake runners.

Remove the retaining clip

To remove the retaining clip, you will need a pair of pliers. The retaining clip holds the vacuum line in place, so you will need to locate the vacuum line first. It is a small black line that runs from the intake to the regulator. Once you have located the vacuum line, use the pliers to remove the retaining clip. Be careful not to damage the vacuum line during this process. Inspect the vacuum line for any cracks or signs of dry rot. It is important to ensure that the vacuum line is in good condition before proceeding. Once the retaining clip is removed, set it aside in a safe place as you will need to reuse it later.

The process of removing the retaining clip is delicate and requires precision. It is important to work slowly and carefully to avoid any damage to the vacuum line or surrounding components. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the location of the vacuum line and the retaining clip before beginning the removal process. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing this task, it may be best to consult a professional or someone with more experience.

When removing the retaining clip, it is also important to be aware of your surroundings and take the necessary safety precautions. Make sure you are wearing the appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and safety goggles, to protect yourself from any potential hazards. It is also crucial to ensure that the work area is well-ventilated, as you will be working with fuel lines and there may be fumes present.

Additionally, it is always a good idea to have a clean work area when performing any type of vehicle maintenance or repair. Clear away any unnecessary tools or debris from the work area and make sure you have a flat surface to work on. Having a clean and organized space will make the process easier and help you avoid any potential issues or accidents.

Overall, removing the retaining clip is a delicate task that requires attention to detail and precision. By taking the necessary steps and safety precautions, you can successfully complete this task and move on to the next steps of adjusting your Kirban fuel pressure regulator. Remember to take your time, work carefully, and consult a professional if you have any doubts or concerns.

Loosen and remove the three socket head cap screws

To loosen and remove the three socket head cap screws from underneath the regulator, you will need to use a 5/32 Allen wrench. This is because access to these bolts is limited, and the short side of the 5/32 Allen wrench should be able to reach them.

It is important to note that these are 10/32 socket head cap screws, and you will need to use a new set of these when installing the new regulator. The new regulator will come with its own set of 10/32 socket head cap screws supplied by Kirban.

When removing the screws, be careful to keep track of them so that you can retrieve them if they fall into the engine bay. It is also a good idea to have a shop towel or rag nearby to catch any fuel that may escape during this process.

Once the screws have been removed, you can proceed to carefully lift and remove the old regulator. Again, be prepared for any leftover fuel that may drip or spill from the regulator as you remove it.

The next step will be to install the new regulator, which will involve following the previous steps in reverse order.

Install the new regulator

To install the new regulator, follow these steps:

Firstly, you will need to acquire the new regulator and ensure it is compatible with your vehicle. The Kirban Adjustable Fuel Pressure Regulator is a popular choice and fits a range of Ford vehicles, including the Mustang 5.0L. It is designed to closely resemble the factory fuel pressure regulator in format and size, allowing it to work with most aftermarket intakes.

Once you have the correct regulator, you can begin the installation process:

• Place a shop towel or rag underneath the regulator to catch any leftover fuel.
• Install the new regulator in the reverse order of how you removed the old one. Ensure you use the new 10/32 socket head cap screws supplied with the Kirban regulator.
• Use a 5/32 Allen wrench to tighten and secure the three screws.
• Turn the ignition several times to build fuel pressure back into the system.
• Check the new regulator for any leaks and ensure that the three screws are tightened. If leaks are found, check that the new regulator is seated correctly and that no debris is lodged between the mounting surfaces.
• Reattach the vacuum line and use pliers to secure the retaining clip.

By following these steps, you can successfully install a new fuel pressure regulator, ensuring a proper seal and avoiding any fuel leaks.

Frequently asked questions