To determine that the fuel pump is in good operating condition, test for both
volume and pressure should be performed. The tests are performed with the fuel
pump installed, and the engine at normal operating temperature and idle speed.
Be sure that the fuel filter has been changed within the specified interval.
If in doubt, install a new filter.
Fig. 1: Pressure and volume testing the electric fuel
pump
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- Remove the air cleaner.
- Disconnect the fuel inlet line at the carburetor.
- Connect a pressure gauge, a restrictor and a flexible hose between the fuel
filter and the carburetor. Position the flexible hose and restrictor so that
the fuel can be discharged into a suitable graduated container.
- Before taking a pressure reading, operate the engine at idle speed and vent
the system into the container by momentarily opening the hose restrictor.
- Close the hose restrictor and allow the pressure to stabilize and note the
reading. It should be 2.8–3.6 psi or 3.6–5.0 psi on the Rotary
Pick-Up.
- If the pump pressure is not within specifications, and the fuel filter and
fuel lines are not blocked, the pump is malfunctioning and should be replaced.
- If the pressure is within specifications, perform the volume test.
- Open the hose restrictor and expel the fuel into the container, while observing
the time required to discharge 1 pint. Close the restrictor. Fuel pump volume
should be approximately 2 pints/minute or 1.2 quarts/minutes on the Rotary
Pick-Up.
- If the pump volume is below specifications, repeat the test using an auxiliary
fuel supply and a new filter. If the pump volume meets specifications while
using an auxiliary fuel supply, check for a restriction in the fuel lines.