blinkin' fuel pump

Post by **gareth** » 08 Apr 2006, 18:15

Replaced the fuel lines on the van today after it had been standing for a while, spurred on by the fine weather and a desire to actually use it rather than just swear at it.

It's a 1980 2l Aircooled. At some point the mechanical pump failed and an electric pump was fitted - a bit of a bodge job judging of by all the different types of fuel hose and clips that were used, the state of the wiring, and the fact that they didn't bother to fit a fuel filter.

Anyway, the electric pump has now completely seized, I've tried giving it a few taps etc, but I think it's got a lot of tank crap in it as you can shake out rust dust from it like a pepper pot!. I thought I'd have a look at the mechanical pump in a kind of desparation, but I wish I hadn't.

When I unbolted the pump from the crankcase a load of oil came out. Only about 100ml or so, tops, but it panicked me, and of course it all seemed much worse than it actually was under the van and trying to avoid getting covered in it. Is this normal? Where has it come from? Should I worry about it or just bolt the pump back on and leave it be?

Am I right in thinking you can't get a repair kit for the mechanical pump? And is it even worth bothering, or should I just fit another electric one? I'm not worried about non-stock parts or anything, I just want everything to work properly. What type of pump do I need to get in terms of flow rates etc?

thanks

Gareth

Post by **deepdale** » 08 Apr 2006, 18:22

German Swedish and French stock the mechanical pump part no. 18358 but they are £58 plus the proverbial!

Post by **gareth** » 11 Apr 2006, 18:42

hmmm, an electric pump would be cheaper than that, so I'm not sure it's worth the bother.

i'd really value some opinions from others who have replaced the pump, i know it can be a bit of a minefield getting the right one and I don't want to mess up!

basically, I just need to know what sort of electric pump to get that would suit the twin solexes.

cheers

gareth

Post by **steve8090** » 11 Apr 2006, 19:02

I use a Facit pump that is rated at 3psi for the twin carbs, they work really well and are available from Big Boyz Toyz, it'll cost you around £40, the one at GSF is a Pierburg one and does not carry enough pressure for twin carbs, it'll work but its not quite enough.
If you go back to mechanical you will need the spacer and the pushrod, they all add to the cost.

Post by **gareth** » 12 Apr 2006, 14:38

Nice one, Steve. Have ordered the pump today. May even get it running by the weekend!