Fuel Pumps & Parts

Having a performance fuel pump offers more fuel volume and pressure you need to keep up with your engine's fuel needs. In a carbureted setup, during wide-open throttle, if the fuel pump can't fill the carburetor fuel bowls quicker than the engine can empty them, flat spots and decreased performance will occur due to lack of adequate fuel supply. The same applies in fuel injection systems, as the fuel pump has to provide enough pressure and volume to properly feed the injectors, especially during wide-open throttle.

Upgrading your factory mechanical fuel pump with a performance fuel pump will add that attention to detail you want installed on a show-worthy engine. Whether chrome-plated or polished aluminum, a performance pump will help complete the looks you are after under the hood.

The following list explains the most common fuel pump types:

The easiest way to check fuel pump operation is with the use of a fuel pressure gauge. Installation of a gauge between the pump and the carburetor / fuel injection system (either temporarily for testing or permanently) will let you know if the pump is providing the correct pressure. If the fuel pump is providing the correct pressure, other fuel system parts will need to be tested until the issue is found. To test if the fuel pump is producing proper flow, locate the fuel pump fittings, disconnect the outlet fitting/line, and connect a hose to it. Then put the other end of the hose into a fuel-safe container. Next, either turn on the pump (if electrical), or crank the engine over (for mechanical fuel pump applications), and observe the amount of fuel coming out of the hose from the pump. This will help you determine if the pump is faulty or if another source in the fuel system is the cause.

Depending on the year, make, and vehicle model, the replacement cost of a fuel pump can vary. Mechanical fuel pumps run from just over $20 to over $400. Electric fuel pumps start around $20 and can reach over $1,300 in price.

Most mechanical fuel pumps are directly bolted to the engine, on either the front or side near the front. As a majority of electric fuel pumps are "pushers", they are located at the rear of the vehicle, near the fuel tank / cell. Following the fuel line from the carburetor or fuel injection system will lead you to the location of the fuel pump.

For most mechanical types, the first step for fuel pump replacement is to find its location and remove any components that are in the way. Next, the fuel pump lines are removed, with a container below the connections to catch any leaking fluid. Then the fuel pump can be removed by unbolting it from the engine. Some pumps use a pushrod or eccentric that should be removed and inspected before reusing. The installation of the replacement pump is the opposite of removal, with attention paid to proper engagement of the pump lever arm, pushrod, eccentric, as well as torque specifications for mounting bolts. For electric fuel pumps, fuel tank removal may be necessary if the pump is located inside. Whether the electric fuel pump is an in-tank module or an inline fuel pump, the first step during replacement is to disconnect the power to it. Next, remove the fuel line fittings and have a container to catch the leaking gas. Next, unbolt the pump. The replacement pump will be installed in the reverse order. Replacement of the fuel filter is highly recommended at the same time as replacement.

Having the correct size fuel pump for your application is critical in order to maximize horsepower potential. The increased fuel allows your engine to be properly fed by the fuel injection system or carburetor without the possibility of inadequate supply. JEGS offers a complete line of truck and car fuel pump options (including diesel fuel pumps) as well as fuel pump parts to help you achieve the performance you need.