Fuel Pump

[GMaurer]

I have had internittent problems with my Universal M-12. It would start and then die, start and die. Recently, when this happened, I went below and listened to the fuel pump (new in 2002), and it was making a high-pitched
ticking sound. I rapped it lightly with a hammer, and the ticking sound
became deeper and more robust. The engine then started, and ran fine all
day.
Do fuel pumps stick, or when they go they go completely? Could this be the
source of my ongoing intermittent problem? I suspect I should simply
replace the pump (again) and see if that cures things.

Greg
1988 E28

 

[hodo]

Greg, these style pumps are designed to push fuel better than pull fuel, so make sure it is reasonably close to the tank and pre-filter. 1 to 3 feet is good. Also, make sure you dont have any air leaks on the suction side of the pump. If you get an air bubble in your line or pump, it will act as described. another idea would be to make sure your fuel is clean. Debris such as scale or rost can cause the pump to not cycle full stroke. If you can, some of the transfer pumps can be disassembled by unscrewing one end cap. I found rust in one ,from setting with water in the pump. Good luck, Hodo