Mercedes Mullins
Belt-driven fuel pumps have become popular for drag race engines using gasoline or alcohol. They are known to be reliable and cost-effective, with the ability to draw a significant amount of vacuum. However, there are concerns about vapor lock and the location of the pump relative to the fuel cell. Electric pumps, on the other hand, may be more vulnerable to voltage fluctuations, impacting their performance. The choice between a belt drive and electric fuel pump depends on various factors, including engine specifications, cost, and performance requirements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pros | Reliable, cost-effective, efficient, suitable for high pressure, no return line needed, no drain on the battery, long-lasting, simple to plumb, easy to adjust, handles fuel spikes better, keeps fuel cooler |
| Cons | Location of the pump in relation to the fuel cell, voltage variable, expensive, noisy, may need a bypass regulator, may need a spare belt, may need an additional electric pump, may need a surge tank, may not be suitable for all engines |
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What You'll Learn
- Cost: Belt-driven pumps can be expensive, especially with conversion costs
- Voltage: Belt-driven pumps can alleviate voltage issues in non-alternator cars
- Vacuum: Belt-drive pumps can draw a large vacuum, leading to vapor lock
- Priming: Belt-driven pumps need to be mounted low, and priming can be an issue
- Reliability: Belt-driven pumps are reliable and efficient, with no power consumption
Cost: Belt-driven pumps can be expensive, especially with conversion costs
Cost is a significant consideration when it comes to belt-driven fuel pumps. While belt-driven pumps offer certain advantages, such as improved reliability and performance with certain fuel types, they can be more expensive than other options. The initial cost of the pump itself can be high, and additional expenses may arise during the conversion process.
For example, when converting to a belt-driven pump, you may need to purchase a new regulator, larger fuel lines, and various fittings, as mentioned by a user who made the switch. Another user specifically mentions the need for a mandrel and pulley for the crank when converting, which can add to the overall cost. These conversion costs can quickly accumulate, making the total expense of installing a belt-driven fuel pump significant.
The complexity of the conversion process and the specific requirements of your vehicle will also impact the final cost. Some users have reported finding ways to save money during the conversion, such as opting for more affordable alternatives to expensive components. However, it is essential to carefully consider the compatibility and safety of any modifications to avoid potential issues.
The cost of a belt-driven fuel pump can vary depending on the brand and specifications. For instance, the Waterman Mini Bertha fuel pump is priced at $1035, while a used Enderle 80A-1 pump can be a more affordable option. Additionally, the size and type of pump needed will influence the price. BLP Racing Products, for instance, offers belt-driven fuel pumps with different gear sizes, ranging from .400" to .700", providing options that cater to various engine requirements.
In conclusion, while belt-driven fuel pumps offer certain benefits, the cost of the pump itself and the associated conversion expenses can be substantial. It is important to carefully evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of belt-driven pumps in the context of your specific use case to determine if the investment aligns with your needs and budget.
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Voltage: Belt-driven pumps can alleviate voltage issues in non-alternator cars
For car engines, fuel is as important as voltage is for an electric motor. The voltage requirements of a fuel pump are often overlooked, especially in drag cars that run off a battery alone. As the voltage drops, the motor's speed drops, reducing both pressure and volume of the output. Belt-driven pumps can help alleviate voltage issues in non-alternator cars.
Belt-driven pumps are also known as mechanical pumps and have been around since the beginning of the automobile. However, they have become a viable option for high-horsepower engines due to recent advances. Mechanical pumps offer flexibility that electric pumps do not. For example, belt-driven pumps can draw as much as 20 inches of vacuum because they are so efficient.
One issue with belt-driven pumps is the location of the pump in relation to the fuel cell. The amount of vacuum increases as the length of the fuel line increases, which requires a larger diameter line to keep up with the flow. Another issue is vapor lock, which occurs when the boiling point of the fuel decreases as the vacuum increases.
Despite these issues, belt-driven pumps offer several advantages. They are more reliable and cost-effective than electric pumps. They also do not need a return line to regulate fuel pressure, although one can still be used if desired. Additionally, belt-driven pumps are self-priming and can be used with a variety of fuels, including gasoline and alcohol.
Overall, belt-driven pumps can be a good choice for certain applications, especially when voltage is a concern in non-alternator cars. However, it is important to consider the potential issues and ensure that the pump is properly installed and maintained.
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Vacuum: Belt-drive pumps can draw a large vacuum, leading to vapor lock
One of the drawbacks of a belt-drive pump is its ability to draw a large vacuum, which can lead to vapor lock. Belt drive pumps are highly efficient and can draw as much as 20 inches of vacuum. This increase in vacuum causes a decrease in the boiling point of the fuel. To prevent vapor lock, careful consideration must be given to the fuel line's design and length, ensuring that the diameter of the line increases as its length does to maintain optimal flow.
The location of the pump relative to the fuel cell is crucial. Mounting the belt drive pump low, even below the fuel tank level, is essential to ensure proper priming. Additionally, the fuel cell should be mounted higher than the pump, and the fuel line should have a gradual fall to the front mount pump. This setup helps maintain optimal fuel flow and prevents issues with fuel delivery.
While belt drive pumps excel at pulling fuel, they may encounter challenges with cold starts, similar to electric pumps. To address this issue, some users add an electric pump specifically for cold starts or incorporate check valves with varying levels of success. It is worth noting that belt drive pumps perform well when primed, and they provide visual or audible indications when they are getting tired, allowing for proactive maintenance.
To summarize, while belt-drive pumps can draw a large vacuum, careful design considerations and proper mounting can mitigate the risk of vapor lock. The benefits of belt drive pumps, such as their efficiency and reliability, make them a popular choice for high-performance engines, especially in drag racing.
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Priming: Belt-driven pumps need to be mounted low, and priming can be an issue
Belt-driven fuel pumps are self-priming, but they need to be mounted low for this to be effective. The tank should be as high as possible, and the pump should be mounted below the fuel tank level. This is why some people mount the pump on the jet itself.
The location of the pump in relation to the fuel cell is a consideration when installing a belt-driven pump. The fuel cell should be mounted higher than the pump. This setup will help with priming.
Some belt-driven pump users have experienced issues with priming. One user reported that their electric fuel pump worked fine when primed, but it was challenging to prime if they ran out of gas or if the boat had been sitting for more than a day.
Another user suggested keeping a spare belt and an extra crank pulley to prime the system if the fuel system is drained. After the first priming, the pump should not have any problems.
Overall, while belt-driven pumps are self-priming, it is important to consider the location of the pump and fuel cell to ensure effective priming.
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Reliability: Belt-driven pumps are reliable and efficient, with no power consumption
Belt-driven fuel pumps are reliable and efficient, with no power consumption. They are popular on drag race engines using gasoline or alcohol. With an 800 HP engine, it takes less than 1 HP to operate this pump, and there is no drain on the battery. Belt-driven pumps are also self-priming, which is a common issue with electric pumps. They can also handle fuel spikes better than internal bypass pumps and keep the fuel cooler when using gasoline.
One user who runs a mechanical belt-driven fuel pump for an alcohol motor states that they have only hit 7,000 RPM on the traps. Some engines spin so fast that they have a lean-out system to lower fuel pressure from the pump, 100+ psi. Another user with a similar setup states that they have never had any issues with their belt-driven pump losing prime.
Belt-driven pumps are also more cost-effective than other options. For example, you don't have to buy the $400 ATI balancer, as there are some in the $100-250 range that will work. Additionally, you may be able to save money on the machinist by using a hunk of aluminum.
One drawback of belt-driven pumps is their location in relation to the fuel cell. They can draw as much as 20 inches of vacuum because of their efficiency, which can lead to vapor lock. However, this can be mitigated by considering the fuel line feeding the pump and the design of the fuel cell. Overall, belt-driven pumps are a reliable and efficient choice for fuel pumps, especially for high-horsepower engines.
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Frequently asked questions
Belt drive fuel pumps are reliable, cost-effective, and quiet. They are also easy to prime, unlike electric pumps. They can also handle fuel spikes better than internal bypass pumps and keep the fuel cooler when using gasoline.
One of the main drawbacks of a belt drive fuel pump is the cost. They can be expensive to convert to, as you may need to change the regulator and get larger fuel lines and new fittings. They are also known to cause vapor lock.
The best belt drive fuel pump depends on your engine and horsepower. Popular brands include Aeromotive, BLP, and Magnafuel.
Bigger is not always better when it comes to fuel pumps. If the pump has to bypass too much fuel, it can cause fuel spikes. It's important to install the correct volume fuel pump for your engine.
