Cleaning the fuel pump greatly enhances its performance, especially for those pumps struggling with dirty, debris, or contaminated fuel systems. The main cause of poor performance in fuel pumps is due to building-up dirt either in the pump itself or the fuel filter that reduces fuel pressure, allowing for poor engine performance. As a result of low fuel pressure, if the level goes lower than it should-be for most cars at about 30 to 60 psi-then bad acceleration, misfiring, and stalling could also occur. In tests done by Bosch, dirty fuel systems resulted in a drop in fuel efficiency of around 10-15%, and fuel pump cleaning was necessary for restoring such losses in performance.
Before attempting any cleaning procedure, it’s important to ensure that the fuel pump is indeed the source of the issue. In most cases, a diagnostic scan can reveal issues such as low fuel pressure (P0087) or clogged fuel injectors. A clean fuel pump should supply consistent pressure, so any fluctuation can indicate that cleaning is necessary. Once confirmed, cleaning the pump involves a few key steps.
First, disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical hazards during cleaning. Next, remove the fuel pump from the fuel tank. In most of the new models, it is located inside the gas tank, so the tank should be dropped or an access panel should be removed using a special tool. Estimating that a fuel pump replacement costs between 300-800 dollars, cleaning of the pump before its replacement can save money and extend its life.
Once removed, the pump needs to be checked for clear evidences of damage or wear. Any visible cracks or corrosion must not appear in the fuel pump. If the pump is dirty, you can clean the inlet and outlet ports using a cleaning solvent. In this aspect, a mixture of fuel system cleaner or carburetor cleaner could be effectively used to flush out residues or debris. A cleaning brush may also be used to perform scrubbing along the exterior and through the pump’s mesh filter. However, such cleaning should not involve the use of abrasive materials that could damage delicate components of the pump.
Cleaning the fuel pump can also involve cleaning or replacing the fuel filter. Clogged filters are common, and replacing a dirty filter can yield an improvement in fuel flow of up to 50%. Testing the fuel pump after cleaning is done by attaching the fuel pump to a fuel pressure gauge to ensure it still works within the proper pressure range. A correctly operating pump would give a steady reading ranging from 30-60 psi, depending on the vehicle.
For more persistent problems, like performance issues with electrical components, the electrical connectors need to be cleaned. Corrosion or rust in the electrical connectors can reduce the power supply to the fuel pump, preventing it from priming properly. Using a contact cleaner on the wiring and terminals will help restore proper electrical connection and prevent future malfunctions.
In some cases, cleaning may not resolve the problem, particularly if the fuel pump is heavily worn or damaged. For instance, if the motor of the pump is failing, cleaning will just provide a temporary solution, and replacement may be required. According to General Motors, regular maintenance and cleaning of the fuel system can increase the lifespan of a fuel pump by 20-30%, which is quite considerable considering the high cost involved in replacing a faulty pump.
For optimal performance, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on cleaning and maintenance. After time, particulate from the tank will eventually build up and clog fuel lines, and though a cleaning of the pump can help to return some functionality, having routine fuel system maintenance will prevent such failures from occurring in the future. Fuel system cleaners, available for $10 to $20 a bottle, can keep fuel pumps and fuel lines clean by preventing the build-up from occurring in the first place.
In short, the fuel pump requires regular cleaning for efficient performance. This will keep the pump free from debris and corrosion that might lead to damage and require repairs. The services of a professional mechanic are recommended for more detailed cleaning or where problems persist. For further information on fuel pumps, refer to KEMSO Fuel Pump.