Easy Steps to Change a Mechanical Fuel Pump

Is it about time to change that mechanical fuel pump? No need to call and pay someone to do it for you. Just follow these easy steps and you're all set. This will not only save your time, it will give your finances a rest, too.

1. Gather the materials needed. You will need the following: a dowel (wooden or bolt) to be used to plug fuel tank to fuel line, screwdriver and two kinds of wrenches (ratchet set that has universal joints and tube or open-end ones).

2. Do not smoke and ensure that there are no sparks or open flames near your work area. Remember that with this job, fuel and its vapors will be there. For further safety, keep fire extinguishers at bay.

3. Remove the old mechanical fuel pump. First, unplug the cable for the negative battery. Unfasten the connection between the tank hose and fuel pump. Then using the wooden dowel to the hose, plug it. However, if there's crack in the hose, you need to replace it with a new one. Next, disjoin the carburetor and the outlet line. This is the time you utilize the wrench for the line nut and a separate one for the fitting of the fuel pump. Lastly, take away the two attached bolts and the pump. Clean out old gasket stuff from the framework surface of the machine.

4. Install the new fuel pump. First of all, work with the fresh gasket. Using a gasket sealer, put on a coat of it to the gasket. Attach the bolts to the pump and move the gasket smoothly over the said bolts. Second, set up the new pump in the engine. The pump's rocker arm should be against the not concentric inside of the engine. Also ensure that push rod is placed correctly in the engine and fuel pump. If ever it slides out, apply heavy grease to stick it in place as you set up the pump. Third, it's time to connect the line for the fuel outlet to the carburetor. And if you find it hard to attach, you must take away the line end from the carburetor. Reattach if after connecting the line with the fuel pump. Use wrenches to make the line nut tighter and to hold the fitting of the fuel pump. Fourth, from the tank, connect the inlet hose and the hose for vapor return if applicable. See to it that all clamps are tightened. Fifth, connect the ground cable once again and make sure to examine any leaks.