Mechanical fuel pumps were generally used in older engines that are without fuel injection. Their simple construction makes them inexpensive and reliable, but they can be overlooked as bad, if the fuel pipe that brings the fuel from the tank to the pump is not intact.

1. Inspecting Mechanical Fuel
Pump

2. Mechanical fuel pumps were generally used in older engines
that are without fuel injection. Their simple construction makes
them inexpensive and reliable, but they can be overlooked as
bad, if the fuel pipe that brings the fuel from the tank to the
pump is not intact.

3. An automobile engine that runs lean, stalls or hesitates, misfires
could have a leaking valve or diaphragm within the fuel pump.
These complications cause the fuel pressure to drop and starve
the fuel's carburetor.
Removing and replacing the pump
Before assessing the fuel system, always make sure that the
supply hose is not exposed or leaking as the fuel is flammable.
Try to avoid breathing its vapors or touching it with bare fingers.

4. If the mechanical pump needs to be replaced, disconnect the
fuel lines from the pump. Then, Plug the inlet line so that fuel
does not leak out.
Detach the fuel pump bolts from the engine and once the bolts
are removed, the pump should come off.
Now, remove the gasket from the mounting surface of the
engine and clean it thoroughly. Make sure that the gasket
residue does not get into the engine.
Install a new gasket on the pump. Apply gasket sealer all around
the gasket for a leak free seal. Also, apply a dab of grease at the
pump lever tip where it contacts the camshaft, then affix the
pump on the engine.

5. Make sure that the pump lever is correctly aligned with the
camshaft lobe. Otherwise, the pump may breakdown when the
engine is cranked.
Reconnect the fuel lines, being careful not to overtighten them.
Crank the engine and check for leaks. If the fuel pump is
installed correctly and there are no problems, then the engine
should start and function normally.
The fuel filter should also be replaced and if the old filter is
plugged in, it may be necessary to clean the fuel tank or to
replace if it is rusty inside.
Replace gaskets after examining. Tighten the bolts gradually
and ensure that they are not overtightened.

6. Is it the fuel causing the problem?
Once the fuel has been excluded as one potential cause of the
problem, the most common issues include a leaky or ruptured
diaphragm, faulty diaphragm spring and failed check valves.
If the engine delays during acceleration after being idled for
long time or by short engine blockade, then the vehicle may be
experiencing vapor lock. Other symptoms may include no
accelerator pump discharge, lack of fuel pressure etc.

7. If, after filling the tank with gas, the engine jerks or lags
continuously during acceleration and then drop off, fuel foaming
could be the cause. Foaming of fuel happens when cold gas
comes in intercourse with the hot carburetor. This condition may
show up symptoms such as normal accelerator pump discharge
and fuel pressure, black exhaust smoke, wet carburetor air horn.
Also, fuels that contain alcohol or octane boosters may change
its volatility which can lead to hard starting. Presence of alcohol
can lead to corrosion throughout the fuel system thus resulting
in fragments that clog the fuel filter and alter the fuel mixture.

8. Checking the fuel pump operation
Now that after creating a safe working environment, below are
few ways to check the mechanical pump.
• Examine the fuel pump visually. If the fuel is leaking, the
diaphragm is damaged and you need to replace it with a new
pump.

9. • Remove the air cleaner. Having a look at the carburetor throat,
pump the throttle linkage. Any working fuel pump will spatter
the fuel into the carburetor. In case if no fuel appears, then
checks whether the tank has gas and also both the fuel filter and
fuel line for blockages.
• Check the fuel pump pressure. Attach a pressure gauge either
to the pump outlet or the fuel line at the carburetor, then crank
the engine. If there is low pressure than the specifications, then
the pump should be reinstated.

10. • Disassemble the fuel line from the carburetor and put it in an
empty container. Crank the engine and check how the fuel flows
from the fuel line. If you can see strong, steady spurts, then it
indicates that the pump is in good working condition and with
weak stream then it could block fuel line, clogged fuel filter,
empty gas tank or a failed pump.
Most modern vehicles come with electric fuel pumps, but
owners who work with classic models or older cars must be
familiar with the mechanical fuel pumps mechanism.

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