Mercedes Mullins
Fuel tank sumps are a popular modification for car enthusiasts, especially those with vintage cars. A fuel sump is a small tank that holds roughly 2 quarts of fuel and is fed by the existing mechanical fuel pump. It is designed to keep the fuel pump fed at all times and to avoid dead spots during acceleration. While some car owners have expressed their satisfaction with the modification, others have concerns about the potential hazards of introducing a reservoir of gasoline into the engine bay, which could rupture and spill fuel in the event of a collision. There are also alternatives to installing a fuel tank sump, such as using anti-slosh foam or a high-pressure pump.
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What You'll Learn
Fuel tank sumps prevent fuel starvation and acceleration issues
Fuel tank sumps are a specialised component used to improve fuel delivery in vehicles with high-performance engines or aftermarket fuel systems. They are typically installed at the bottom of the fuel tank to collect fuel from the lowest point of the tank. This design helps prevent fuel starvation during hard acceleration, aggressive cornering, or low fuel levels.
Fuel starvation occurs when the fuel pump sucks in air instead of fuel, causing a loss of power. This is a particular issue for EFI systems, where air in the fuel system can lead to a significant drop in power. By collecting fuel at the bottom of the tank, fuel tank sumps ensure that the pump always has access to fuel, even during aggressive driving or when fuel levels are low.
Additionally, fuel tank sumps can help prevent acceleration issues by providing a consistent and reliable fuel supply to the engine. This is especially beneficial for vehicles with modified engines or upgraded fuel systems that demand optimal performance. The sump works with gravity to supply fuel to the pump, reducing strain on the pump and increasing its efficiency. This can lead to improved throttle response and overall engine performance.
While some vehicles may not experience fuel starvation or acceleration issues without a sump, adding a sump can provide added insurance and improve fuel delivery. For those who frequently drive their vehicles hard or participate in track or drag racing, a fuel tank sump can be a valuable addition to prevent fuel starvation and improve performance.
When considering a fuel tank sump, it is important to select one that is compatible with the specific vehicle model and intended use. Different sump designs are available to accommodate various fuel tank shapes and sizes, and ensuring proper compatibility will ensure optimal performance and prevent fuel delivery issues.
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External vs. in-tank fuel pumps
When it comes to external vs. in-tank fuel pumps, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, EFI units utilize powerful fuel pumps that are mounted in the storage tank or in-line between the storage tank and the motor. External fuel pumps are available in a variety of configurations and sizes and are generally more reliable and serviceable than internal ones when placed properly and equipped with the proper pump. They are also easier to swap out in the event of a failure and are usually cheaper. However, they tend to be noisy, prone to overheating, and more likely to starve for fuel.
On the other hand, in-tank fuel pumps are a great option for converting a carbureted car to EFI, as they can be used to replace old gas containers. In-tank pumps are also quieter and less prone to failure due to overheating. Additionally, they can deliver fuel consistently with nearly any pump, as long as the pump is properly matched for the engine. The cost of adding internal fuel pumps has decreased due to more manufacturers offering reliable pumps designed for aftermarket tanks and fuel cells.
It's worth noting that some people choose to add a sump to their fuel tank to keep the fuel pump fed at all times and to avoid dead spots on acceleration. This can be done by welding a sump to the gas tank or using a kit that includes a sump.
Ultimately, the decision between an external or in-tank fuel pump depends on the specific application and the vehicle's requirements. Most vehicles benefit more from internal pumps due to their reliability, while external pumps may be preferred for ultra-high horsepower applications as they can be larger and support more horsepower.
External Fuel Pump Pros:
- More reliable and serviceable when properly placed and equipped.
- Easier to swap out in case of failure.
- Usually cheaper.
External Fuel Pump Cons:
- Tend to be noisy.
- Prone to overheating.
- More likely to starve for fuel.
In-Tank Fuel Pump Pros:
- Quieter.
- Less prone to failure due to overheating.
- Consistently deliver fuel with nearly any pump when properly matched for the engine.
- Cost has decreased due to more manufacturers offering reliable pumps for aftermarket tanks.
In-Tank Fuel Pump Cons:
- When the pump fails, you must drop the tank to access it.
- May be more expensive depending on the vehicle and application.
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Fuel tank sumps can be welded on
Some people also recommend filling the tank with water and attempting to braze, gas weld, or TIG weld it. However, this method is controversial as any remaining fumes will be compressed and more likely to ignite with force. Instead of water, some people recommend filling the tank with inert gas, such as argon or CO2, to ensure that all fumes are displaced.
Another important consideration is the need to displace gas fumes during the welding process. One way to do this is to hook up a hose to the car exhaust and run the car for a few hours before welding. It is important to ensure that the car engine is running well with no issues and that the tank has enough openings to allow for a flow through the tank. Additionally, it is crucial to maintain cross-ventilation during the process and to keep the purge going at all times while welding or brazing. Metal is porous, and explosive residue from gases can remain trapped in the pores for extended periods.
Finally, when welding the sump to the fuel tank, it is important to drill a hole at the lowest point and install a fitting with threads and a crush washer. After welding, the inside of the tank should be coated with a product designed for coating fuel tanks to prevent rust.
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Fuel tank sumps can be installed near the main tank
Fuel tank sumps are a device that can be installed at the bottom of a fuel tank to catch any dirt, debris, or water that may be present in the tank. They are typically made from stainless steel or aluminum and can be installed by anyone with basic mechanical knowledge.
When it comes to EFI systems, adding a sump to the fuel tank can be beneficial. Some people add a sump to their tank to keep the fuel pump fed at all times and to avoid dead spots on acceleration. For example, one user on a Vintage Mustang forum mentions that they have heard of people adding a sump to their tank to keep the fuel pump fed at all times. They also state that they have an external EFI pump and are considering adding an in-tank pump, which would require installing a sump.
Another user on the same forum mentions that they have EFI and a brand new tank, but they are considering adding a sump to prevent any issues with fuel starvation. They also mention that they have seen people weld sumps onto their tanks.
The ideal placement for a fuel sump seems to be at the lowest part of the tank, as this allows for the collection of any contaminants that may be present in the fuel. One user on a Cummins Diesel forum mentions that they installed a sump at the lowest part of the tank to get rid of the 1/4 tank issue and have had no problems with leaks.
Additionally, Edelbrock offers an EFI and Fuel Sump System that includes a universal EFI Sump Fuel Kit. This kit can be mounted under the hood and consists of a tank containing a submersible, high-pressure fuel pump and regulator. This option does not require a return line to the fuel tank.
Overall, installing a fuel tank sump near the main tank can be a relatively simple process and can help keep the fuel system clean and free of contaminants. However, it is important to consider factors such as driving conditions and how often the car is driven when deciding whether to install a fuel tank sump.
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Fuel tank sumps can be used with high-pressure pumps
The Edelbrock EFI and Fuel Sump System is an example of a fuel tank sump that can be used with a high-pressure pump. This system includes a universal throttle body that bolts on any V-8 engine originally equipped with a square-bore 4150-style carburetor and intake manifold. The kit includes an electronic control unit (ECU), a wiring harness, and sensors such as an oxygen sensor and engine temperature sensor. Edelbrock offers two types of fuel systems for use with the E-Street EFI: a return-style system with a 57-GPH electric fuel pump and a universal EFI Sump Fuel Kit.
The universal EFI Sump Fuel Kit is a self-contained unit that can be mounted under the hood and consists of a tank with a submersible, high-pressure fuel pump and regulator. The sump is filled by the existing lower-pressure carbureted system, and no return line to the fuel tank is required. Fuel pressure is regulated at 49 or 60 psi, depending on the injector's requirements.
Fuel sumps are beneficial for both diesel and gasoline engines and can be used in various applications, including street modifications, drag racing, and sled-pulling. They are designed to work with gravity, reducing strain on the pump and increasing efficiency.
Some car owners have shared their experiences with adding a sump to their fuel tank for EFI systems. One user with a Corvette discussed their plan to add a sump to the side of the stock sender, blocking off the stock supply line. They also mentioned the importance of mounting the electric fuel pump slightly below the sump to utilize gravity for fuel delivery. Another user with a Vintage Mustang shared their experience with using an external EFI pump and their desire to switch to an in-tank pump to reduce noise.
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Frequently asked questions
A fuel tank sump is a small tank that can be added to a fuel system to keep the fuel pump fed at all times and to avoid dead spots on acceleration.
The purpose of a fuel tank sump is to ensure a constant supply of fuel to the engine, preventing fuel starvation and loss of power.
A fuel tank sump is connected to a high-pressure pump that returns fuel from the pressure regulator to the main tank. It is fed by a low-pressure electric fuel pump or the existing engine-driven pump.
The benefits of using a fuel tank sump with EFI include improved throttle response, increased power, and the ability to add a high-performance fuel system to engines with few other options.
Yes, alternatives to using a fuel tank sump with EFI include using an external fuel pump, an in-tank fuel pump, or a surge tank system. Some EFI systems also utilize a return-style fuel system that returns unused fuel to the tank.
