Testing Mallory Electric Fuel Pumps: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to test mallory electric feul pump

The Mallory electric fuel pump is a popular choice for car enthusiasts, with many opting for the 140 model. The pump is known for its quiet and reliable performance, thanks to its Gerotor design, which also eliminates the possibility of vane breakage. When testing the Mallory electric fuel pump, it is important to check the fuel pressure and ensure that the pump is primed correctly. This can be done by checking the pressure at the fuel pressure port and separating the regulator from the pump to test pure, unregulated pump pressure. Additionally, ensuring that the pump is mounted below the fuel level and using rubber washers on the mounting bolts can help reduce noise and improve performance.

Testing a Mallory Electric Fuel Pump

Characteristics Values
Pump type Gerotor
Pressure problem Fuel pressure port
Fuel line and pipe fitting size 5/16"
Pickup tube size 5/8" steel braided
Filter type Fram HPG1
Priming method Held line higher than the fuel pump and poured fuel into it
Noise level Quiet
Rebuildable Yes
Mounting Mount on rubber isolators or use rubber washers on mounting bolts
Fuel compatibility Alcohol/methanol, gasoline

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Check the fuel pressure before the regulator

Checking the fuel pressure before the regulator is an important step in diagnosing fuel pump issues. Here is a detailed guide on how to perform this check for a Mallory electric fuel pump:

Prepare the Vehicle:

  • Park the vehicle in a well-ventilated area and ensure it is turned off.
  • Put on safety gear, including gloves and eye protection. Fuel under pressure can be dangerous, so take necessary precautions.
  • Locate the fuel pump and regulator. Refer to your vehicle's service manual or seek advice from a mechanic if you are unsure.

Check Fuel Pressure:

  • Start the vehicle and let it idle.
  • Install a fuel pressure gauge before the regulator. Ensure it is securely connected.
  • Run the fuel pump and observe the pressure reading on the gauge.
  • Compare the pressure reading to the manufacturer's specifications. This information can typically be found in the vehicle's service manual or online.
  • If the pressure is significantly lower than the specified value, there may be an issue with the fuel pump or the regulator.

Further Troubleshooting:

  • If the pressure is low, check for any signs of fuel leaks or blockages in the fuel lines.
  • Inspect the fuel filter for any restrictions or clogs. A clogged filter can impede fuel flow and affect pressure.
  • Consider removing the regulator and performing a direct pressure test on the fuel pump to isolate the issue.
  • If the pressure is within the acceptable range, perform a fuel volume test to ensure the proper amount of fuel is being delivered to the fuel injectors.

Maintenance and Repairs:

  • If you suspect an issue with the fuel pump or regulator, consult a qualified mechanic for further diagnostics and repairs.
  • Fuel pumps and regulators are precision components, and repairs or replacements should be approached with caution.
  • Ensure that any replacement parts are compatible with your vehicle's specific make, model, and fuel system design.

Remember to prioritize safety and always work within your comfort level. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, seek advice from a professional mechanic or a trusted automotive forum.

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Test the pump with a vacuum gauge

To test a Mallory electric fuel pump with a vacuum gauge, you must first understand the role of a fuel pump and vacuum system in a vehicle. A fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine, and an electric fuel pump uses an electric motor to create pressure and facilitate fuel movement. A vacuum system, on the other hand, plays a significant role in various engine functions. Testing the fuel pump and vacuum system is essential for maintaining optimal vehicle performance and reliability.

Now, to perform the test:

  • Turn on the ignition: Start by turning the ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine. This activates the fuel pump.
  • Connect the vacuum gauge: Attach the vacuum gauge to the suction side of the pump, specifically to the inlet of the fuel pump. Ensure that it is securely connected.
  • Read the vacuum gauge: Once the vacuum gauge is connected and stable, observe the reading on the gauge. It should pull a vacuum, indicating proper functioning. If it does not pull a vacuum, there may be a leak in the suction lines, transfer valve, or the fuel tank may be empty.
  • Compare the reading: Compare the vacuum reading with the specifications provided by the manufacturer. The reading should fall within a specific range for the vehicle to operate correctly.

By testing the Mallory electric fuel pump with a vacuum gauge, you can ensure that the pump is creating sufficient vacuum pressure to draw fuel from the tank and maintain proper fuel delivery to the engine. This diagnostic test helps identify any issues with the fuel pump or vacuum system, allowing for timely maintenance or repairs to optimize vehicle performance and reliability.

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Ensure the pump is below the fuel

The fuel pump needs to be below the fuel level to work effectively. This is because the pump requires a gravity assist to draw fuel through the filter. If the pump is mounted above the fuel level, it may not function properly and could be noisy.

To ensure the pump is below the fuel, you should first check the position of the pump relative to the fuel tank. The pump should be mounted below the level of the fuel tank bottom. If the pump is installed upside down, this could be the cause of the problem.

In some cases, the pump may be below the fuel tank, but the feed from the tank is up a vertical pickup pipe inside the tank. This means that the pump is still essentially drawing fuel from a higher position and may explain why the pump is not staying full.

If the pump is not below the fuel level, you will need to adjust the mounting position or the pipe fittings to ensure it is below the fuel. This may involve lowering the pump or adjusting the pipe fittings to reduce the lift required to draw fuel.

It is also important to ensure that the filter is not restricting the feed of the pump. The filter should be designed for the pressure side of the pump, not the feed side. Try removing the filter and observe if this improves the pump's performance. If the filter is clogged, this could also impact the pump's ability to draw fuel, so ensure the filter is clean and in good condition.

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Use a filter to protect the pump

To ensure the longevity of your Mallory electric fuel pump, it is essential to use a filter to protect it from any contaminants that may be present in the fuel. This is a crucial step in maintaining the performance and health of your pump. Here are some detailed instructions and insights on using a filter for protection:

Firstly, it is important to understand that the filter's placement is critical. Some filters are designed for the tank side of the pump, while others are meant for the engine or pressure side. For example, Holley offers a 100-micron filter for the tank side and a 10-micron filter for the engine side. Ensure you are using the correct filter for your specific pump and application.

Secondly, the filter's purpose is to restrict any contaminants from entering the pump, but it can also restrict the fuel flow if not properly matched with the pump's requirements. If the pump demands more fuel than the filter can supply, it may lead to issues such as an empty pump. Therefore, it is crucial to select a filter that can provide adequate fuel flow while still effectively filtering out any contaminants.

Additionally, the size of the pickup tube and the fuel line can impact the performance of the filter and pump. A smaller pickup tube, such as a 5/16" tube, may be more prone to clogging than a larger one, such as a 3/8" tube. Ensure that the filter and pickup tube are appropriately sized for your pump and application.

When installing the filter, it is recommended to place the pump below the fuel level to utilise gravity assistance. This ensures that the pump can draw fuel more efficiently. It is also important to periodically check and clean the filter to ensure it is not clogged, especially if you are experiencing fuel pressure problems.

Lastly, some users have shared their experiences with priming the Mallory electric fuel pump. One suggestion is to disconnect the fuel line from the tank and pour fuel directly into the line until the pump primes. Another method is to pressurise the tank using an air hose or a vacuum gauge hooked up to the suction side of the pump. These techniques can help with priming the pump and ensuring proper fuel flow.

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Check for clogging in the filter sock

To check for clogging in the filter sock of a Mallory electric fuel pump, you must first identify the symptoms of a clogged fuel filter. If your engine is not getting enough fuel, it could cause a host of issues. For instance, your engine might sound like an asthmatic howler monkey during idle, indicating that it is not getting the proper levels of fuel to idle at a consistent RPM. If the normal combustion cycle is off balance due to a lack of fuel, the engine might overwork or overstress itself, leading to unhealthy high temperatures.

Another symptom of a clogged filter is when the fuel filter is not staying full. This could be because the pump wants more fuel than the filter will allow. In such cases, removing the filter and checking if the pressure changes can be a simple test to determine if the filter sock is clogged.

If you are using a Mallory 140 electric pump, it is recommended that the pump be mounted below the level of the fuel tank. If the pump is above the level of the fuel, it will need to be gravity-assisted. A 5/16th pickup could be part of the problem, especially if you are pulling fuel up from the tank. In this case, a 3/8ths pickup is recommended, especially for high HP engines.

It is important to regularly check for clogging in the filter sock to prevent your car from dying unexpectedly. Fuel filters can become clogged over time as they trap unwanted debris, and the longer a filter is in action, the more particles it will catch.

Frequently asked questions

You can test the fuel pressure by attaching a pressure gauge to the pump and checking the fuel pressure. If the pressure is unstable, try removing the filter and seeing if that changes the pressure. If that doesn't work, remove the regulator and connect the output of the pump directly to the pressure gauge.

If your fuel tank is sumped, it could be causing the fuel pressure problems. Try disconnecting the fuel line from the tank and pouring fuel into it until it primes. If the level in the tank is higher than the fuel pump, it should not need to be primed.

Your pump might be installed upside down. Pumps go quiet when they pull air, and the motor should be at the top. If the pump is not installed upside down, try rubber mounting it to reduce noise.

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