
PRESSURE
GAUGE
6 INCH
MAXIMUM
FUEL PUMP
CARBURETOR
THROTTLE BODY
IDLE
RPM
TACHOMETER
(ENGINE SPEED)
Fig. 3-7.
Gauge installation with a tee fitting to test mechanical fuel
pump pressure.
Chapter
C
: Fuel, Air Induction, and Exhaust Systems Diagnosis and Repair
57
Mechanical Fuel Pump Testing
Two tests, pressure and volume, are performed to check
the mechanical fuel pump used on a carbureted engine.
A weak pump may produce adequate pressure, but not
deliver a sufficient volume of fuel. Both tests are re-
quired to get an accurate picture of pump performance.
Pressure Test
A vacuum-pressure gauge is used to test mechanical
pump pressure. Prepare for testing by attaching a short
length of fuel hose to the gauge, remove the air cleaner,
and connect a tachometer to the engine. If the pump
has a vapor return line, clamp it closed. Test as follows:
1. Disconnect the fuel inlet line at the carburetor and
attach the gauge hose to the fuel line, figure 3-6.
The gauge can also be installed using a tee fitting
in the fuel inlet line, figure 3-7.
2. Start and run the engine at the test speed specified
by the manufacturer. To get an accurate reading,
hold the vacuum-pressure gauge at the same
height as the carburetor. Compare the gauge read-
ing to specifications. Replace the pump if pressure
reading is low.
3. Stop the engine and leave the gauge connected.
The pressure reading should hold for several min-
utes. If not, the valves are not sealing properly. Re-
place the pump.
Volume Test
To check fuel pump volume, a length of fuel hose and a
graduated container are required. Disconnect and re-
move the vacuum-pressure gauge, but leave the
tachometer attached to the engine.
To check pump volume:
VACUUM-PRESSURE
GAUGE
FUEL LINE
FROM FUEL PUMP
CARBURETOR
OR THROTTLE
BODY
Fig. 3-6.
Direct gauge connection for performing a mechanical fuel
pump pressure test.
1. Disconnect the fuel outlet hose or line from the pump.
Attach the length of fuel hose to the pump outlet.
2. Place the free end of the hose into the graduated con-
tainer.
3. Start and run the engine at 500 RPM for 15 seconds.
Read the fluid level on the scale and multiply by 4, for a
60-second reading.
Compare results to specifications. Most fuel pumps de-
liver about one quart, or liter, per minute at an engine-
speed of 500 RPM. Low fuel volume may be caused by
either a restriction or a mechanical failure. Restrictions
may be in the filter, lines, hoses, or tank pickup. Me-
chanical problems include a worn or broken fuel pump
eccentric on the camshaft, pump pushrod, rocker arm,
or diaphragm linkage.
Electric Fuel Pump Testing
Tests performed on a low-pressure electric fuel pump
used on carbureted engines are similar to those for a
mechanical pump. Perform pressure and volume tests
and compare results to specifications. If testing the
pump with the engine not running, bypass the pump
control wiring and supply battery voltage directly to the
pump. Also check electric pumps for:
• System voltage
• Good ground connections
• All other electrical connections
Fuel Injection Testing
Pressure testing is the most effective method of trou-
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