The Fuel Pump is a crucial component for engine performance as it supplies the correct amount of fuel from the tank to the engine at the proper pressure. Modern engines, particularly those utilizing electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems, require stable fuel pressure—usually ranging from 40-70 PSI—per cylinder bank for optimum combustion. Engines rely on a good Fuel Pump for a steady air-fuel ratio for efficiency, power and emissions control.
Studies from the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) reveal that an underperforming Fuel Pump can reduce engine efficiency by up to 30%. A weak or faulty pump often results in the injectors not supplying the right amount of fuel to the combustion chamber, resulting in bad combustion. This loses power and also increases fuel consumption and harmful emissions. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy has concluded that automobiles with a bad fuel delivery system produce 20% more carbon monoxide, that is, both affecting the performance of the automotive components, as well as the automobile does not pass the state of environmental surveillance.
“Engines are only as good as the apparatus that supports them,” said Tom Murphy, an automotive repair expert. A Quality Fuel Pump delivers a steady supply of fuel to the engines under the worst possible combinations like acceleration, towing and other demanding conditions. Without this consistent reliability, engines face hesitation, misfiring and even stalling, particularly at higher speeds.
Another function is to protect the engine from damage, wherein case the Fuel Pump also plays an important role. Low fuel supply may lead to a lean mixture (more air than fuel during combustion). Lean conditions last long enough to actually cause overheating, knocking, and ultimately, failure of engine components such as the pistons and cylinders. Engines operating in a “lean” condition, often caused by low fuel pressure, are also 40% more likely to experience catastrophic failure than similarly-equipped vehicles that have properly regulated fuel systems, according to a 2021 Bosch Fuel Systems report.
Also, many modern electric fuel pumps are based on performance designs to suit modern-day high-performance cars. Turbocharged engines, for example, may need pumps able to provide over 70 PSI of fuel pressure to sustain boost-based performance. These systems in particular will suffer (if the pump is failing) a 20 to 50% drop in hp, directly impacting your ability to drive the car!
For a long and trouble-free service life, care must be taken for the Fuel Pump. Keeping the fuel tank at least a quarter full helps keep the pump submerged—prevents overheating and wear. Changing the fuel filter regularly every 30,000 miles also keeps the pump free from debris, which will help it to run efficiently for a long period of time, thus saving you from replacing it.
When you invest in a dependable Fuel Pump like something over at Kemso, you can rest assured that it will perform consistently well over time. For details on how to maintain and upgrade your own Fuel Pump, could be Sound set Pump.