Upgrading Your Monster: Installing A Fuel Injected Gas Tank

how to install fuel injected gas tank on carburated monster

Installing a fuel-injected gas tank on a carbureted monster requires careful modifications to ensure safety and functionality. The process involves converting the internal fuel pump to an external one, addressing the fuel pickup, and ensuring compatibility with the frame and fuel pressure requirements. It is crucial to work with caution around gasoline and its fumes to prevent accidents. Before beginning the installation, it is essential to clean the fuel tank, remove the fuel line and fuel level sending unit, and inspect and replace any damaged or weakened fuel lines.

Characteristics and Values for Installing a Fuel Injected Gas Tank on a Carbureted Monster

Characteristics Values
Fuel pickup Internal on injected bikes, external on carbureted bikes
Fuel pump Required for conversion, may need to be modified
Fuel pressure Higher in fuel injection (55 PSI) compared to carburetor (6-10 PSI)
Fuel pressure regulator Needed for fuel injection
Fuel filters Two required for fuel injection
Fuel return line Required, can be placed in the middle of the filler neck
Fuel tank sending unit Needs to be cleaned and removed
Drilling Required for installing hose barbs
Hose Six-inch piece attached to the inside barb
Straps Tightened after raising the tank into place
Safety Avoid welding, grinding, or working with gasoline fumes

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Ensure the tank fits the frame

To ensure the tank fits the frame, you will need to check the fuel pump setup. Ducati Monsters with carburetors have an external fuel pump, while fuel-injected bikes have an internal fuel pump. This means that the fuel pickup will not drain the tank in the same way. You may need to chop down an internal fitting to ensure the fuel pickup works correctly.

Additionally, you should check the air box clearance and make sure that the tank does not interfere with any other components. The fuel pump from a carbed supersport may be required, as the setup is similar, but the pressure will need to be regulated to 3 bar.

One user with an S2R Ducati Monster who purchased an S4R tank noted that they had to stay with plastic tanks due to the fuel pump setup. They also provided a process for converting an internal fuel pump to an external one:

> Drain tank, pull flange assembly from under the tank, remove the dead fuel pump, and cut off the nipple that feeds the fuel line. Now fuel drains to the bottom of the tank and out to the external fuel pump.

It is important to note that some customization may be required to ensure the fuel tank fits the frame properly and functions correctly with the fuel pump.

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Check the fuel pump

To check the fuel pump before installing a fuel-injected gas tank on a carbureted monster, you can follow these steps:

Firstly, check the fuel pump fuse. Often, the issue is not with the pump itself, but with the power supply. Refer to your owner's manual to locate the fuse box, then find the fuse associated with the fuel pump. Remove this fuse and carefully inspect it for any signs of failure, such as burning or breakage. If the fuse appears damaged, it will need to be replaced.

If the fuse looks intact, proceed to check the remaining fuses connected to the fuel system. Replace any blown fuses, if necessary. Once you've ensured that all relevant fuses are in good condition, ask an assistant to turn the key while you listen for the fuel pump relay clicking on.

Another aspect to examine is the fuel pump test point, which is typically located near the fuel injectors. Hook a pressure gauge to the fuel pump test fitting at this point. You can also locate the point where the pump connects with the filter injector rail.

Additionally, consider the type of fuel pump your carbureted bike has. It may have an external fuel pump, while fuel-injected bikes typically have internal pumps. This distinction is important because the external pump drains the tank differently from an internal one. If your bike has an external pump, you may need to modify an internal fitting.

Finally, when using an EFI fuel pump with a carbureted engine, it's important to manage the excess fuel flow. EFI fuel pumps can produce a larger flow than what is required by a carbureted engine. To address this, a bypass regulator is necessary to return the excess fuel back to the fuel tank. A large return line should also be used to prevent back pressure.

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Clean the fuel tank

To clean the fuel tank of your Ducati Monster motorcycle, there are several methods you can use. One popular method is to use a paint thinner like methyl hydrate to remove any varnished gas or gunk. You can find methyl hydrate at your local hardware store for around $10 a gallon. It's important to note that you should not breathe in the fumes, and that it evaporates quickly at room temperature. After cleaning with methyl hydrate, you can use a rust remover, but be sure to avoid inhaling these fumes as well.

Another method for removing rust is to fill the tank with vinegar and let it sit for a couple of days. One user reported success with this method on a rusty 70s Yamaha tank. You can also try using baking soda to neutralize the vinegar afterward. If you're concerned about corrosion, you might consider using a corrosion inhibitor or a tank liner, although some people have complained about the effectiveness of tank liners.

Additionally, you can use small nuts or clean gravel inside the tank, along with a strong solvent like methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), to slosh around and help remove rust and debris. Remember to use a fuel filter after cleaning to catch any leftover debris and avoid carburetor issues.

When it comes to the fuel pump, Ducati Monsters with carburetors typically have an external fuel pump, while fuel-injected models have an internal fuel pump. If you're converting from a carburetor to fuel injection, you may need to modify the fuel pickup and chop down internal fittings.

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Remove the fuel gauge sending unit

To remove the fuel gauge sending unit, you will first need to disconnect the negative battery cable to ensure no electrical sparks are possible. This is because you will be dealing with gas, which is highly flammable. Work in a well-ventilated area to prevent breathing in fumes. You could also use a professional respirator.

The fuel gauge sending unit is usually located at the top of the fuel tank and is accessible under the back seat or under the carpet in the trunk. You will need to lift the back seat or trunk carpet and locate the access cover for the fuel gauge sending unit. Remove the screws holding the cover in place and take off the access cover to reveal the unit.

With the access cover removed, you will see the fuel gauge sending unit. It will have a wiring harness plugged into the top, which tells the gas gauge how much fuel is in the tank. Unplug the wiring harness and move it to the side. If your unit is screwed or bolted in place, remove the screws or bolts. Some units are a ""twist-lock" type and work like the old twist-lock gas caps. You will see a few notches along the outer ring of the sending unit. Place the tip of a sturdy, flat-head screwdriver in the notch and gently tap it counter-clockwise. The sending unit will rotate until it's loose.

Before removing the fuel sending unit, make sure the area around it is clean, dry, and free of corrosion so that no debris falls into the fuel tank. You should also disconnect the fuel lines and electrical connections from the unit. Clean the area around the plug and make sure it is free of any contaminants that could fall into the tank.

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Drill a hole for the return line

Drilling a hole for the return line in a gas tank is a potentially dangerous task that should be approached with caution. An empty gas tank is a fuel-air explosive ready to go off, and the slightest fumes can ignite with a spark. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the tank is completely free of residual liquid fuel and is dry before drilling. Some people recommend rinsing the tank after draining it or filling it with water to ensure that all fuel is removed. It is also important to avoid welding or grinding around gasoline or gasoline fumes, as this can also cause an explosion.

Once the tank is confirmed to be free of fuel and fumes, the next step is to drill the hole for the return line. The size of the hole will depend on the size of the return line being used. It is important to use the right size drill bit to ensure a proper fit. After drilling the hole, it is essential to deburr the hole to remove any sharp edges that could damage the return line.

One method for drilling the hole is to use a drill bit that is slightly larger than the return line. This will create a small gap between the hole and the return line, which can then be sealed with an appropriate sealant or adhesive. Another method is to use a drill bit that matches the size of the return line for a tight fit. In this case, it is important to use a return line with a slight taper or bevel to help guide it through the hole.

When drilling the hole, it is crucial to use a sharp drill bit to avoid excessive heat and friction, which can increase the risk of ignition. It is also important to use a slow speed and apply light pressure to avoid damaging the drill bit or the gas tank. Additionally, using a lubricant or cutting fluid can help keep the drill bit cool and reduce the risk of ignition.

Overall, drilling a hole for the return line in a gas tank requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and a proper fit. It is important to follow all safety precautions and use the appropriate tools and techniques to avoid potential hazards.

Frequently asked questions

Some issues you might face include the fuel pickup, the fuel pressure, and whether the tank fits the frame properly.

It is important to not weld or grind around gasoline or gasoline fumes as this could be dangerous. You should also clean any loose debris from around the fuel tank's sending unit and clean the strainer with gas or solvent.

You will need a drill, a gasket, a hose, and a knife or tool for cutting.

First, drain the tank and remove the flange assembly and fuel pump. Then, chop off the nipple that feeds the fuel line. Next, drill a hole in the sending unit cap and install the hose barbs in the cap. Attach a hose to the inside barb and reinstall the sending unit assembly. Finally, raise the tank back into place and tighten the straps.

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