FUEL PUMPS: KNOW HOW TO IDENTIFY WHEN TO DO MAINTENANCE
There are different types of fuel pumps for automobiles, but one thing is certain: if they are not properly maintained, regardless of the model, you could end up getting stuck or spending a lot more in the workshop. Are we going to prevent this from happening by getting to know this component better? For more insights jump to: bad fuel filter symptoms
Throughout this text, we will explain what fuel pumps are, the function of this part, the main models, their particularities, signs that something is wrong and much more!
What is the fuel pump?
Have you ever stopped to think that almost never — only on some older models, like the VW truck — do we see the fuel tank next to the engine? But then, how does gasoline, ethanol or even diesel get to the propellant? Thanks to a component called the fuel pump.
These pumps are responsible for transferring fuel from the tank to the injection system or carburetor. These, in turn, will feed the engine for its operation. Usually only one can do the job — except in some high-powered models, such as racing cars, which may have more units.
How does the fuel pump work?
Although the function is always the same, fuel pumps may work differently depending on the vehicle model. There are basically two types: mechanical and electrical. The latter is the most modern and is present in all current cars, working together with electronic fuel injection .
mechanical pump
These fuel pumps usually equip older vehicles , which use a carburetor or mechanical injection pump (in this case, they are only used to remove the diesel from the tank). They are quite robust and rarely cause any kind of problem. Its operation is relatively simple and does not depend on many components.
When the engine is turned, a kind of lever (connected to the crankshaft, camshaft or other moving part) actuates a diaphragm or a pair of gears inside the pump, creating a suction. The fuel then enters through a valve, which prevents its return to the tank, and leaves through another, connected to the fuel system.
One of the downsides of this system is that it only works when the engine is in motion and depends on rotation to generate more suction. To solve this failure and make the process more precise, electric pumps were developed, which are much better.
Electric pump
The operation of electric pumps is very similar to that of mechanical ones, except that they do not depend on the engine turning to start operating and pumping the fuel from the tank. In these models, the drive work is done by a small electric motor integrated into the component.
What is the advantage of this? Electric pumps are able to maintain a much steadier flow of fuel going to the engine, even at lower revs. In addition, control is easier, which allows better management of the system and make vehicles more efficient.
What are the peculiarities of this piece?
Electric pumps have some peculiarities in relation to mechanical ones. One of them is the much higher fuel pressure, necessary for the perfect functioning of the electronic injection. Another detail is the different types that exist. Basically there are two: internal and external.
As the name implies, the internal fuel pumps are inside the tank, working integrated with other system components. The external ones are installed on a support, which can be located anywhere on the fuel line, usually at the rear of the vehicle.
These pumps can also be divided into modular and non-modular. The first type is usually assembled in a single block, where we find the pre-filter, the tank level gauge and the return system. The other model is simpler, consisting only of the pump (mostly formed by a pair of gears) and its motor.
How to perform preventive maintenance on the system?
Well, now that you know a little more about fuel pumps, it's time to see how to keep this component up to date. The first step is never to walk with the tank in reserve, as this can even cause the electric motor to burn out.
