P30 Fuel Pump Service Life?

RLS7201 wrote:
I've seen this rationale many times. But why would fuel tank level affect fuel pump temperature if the pumped fuel flows through both the pump and the pump motor housing?

Richard,

The fuel pumps to which they are referring are inside the gas tank. By keeping the tank level high, the gasoline surrounding the pump acts like a heatsink to keep the pump cooler. If the gasoline level drops below the top level of the pump then the pump will run warmer because of the loss of this cooling action, potentially accelerating wear and increasing the likelihood of pump failure.

To that, the other variable I'd add is to make sure the gasoline stays fresh in the tank and to add fuel stabilizer if the fuel will sit in the tank for 6 months or more. I find this especially true for my small gasoline engines, and wonder if the fuel pumps could also be effected by a build up of varnish. The price of a bottle of Stabil is cheap compared to a new fuel pump and installation. Pluse the Stabil helps keep the generator fuel system in top shape too.

~Rick

I am near 170,000 miles with no fuel pump issues.
As posted earlier, if tank gets too low you have the potential of picking up debris from inside the tank. This clogs the pump.

rgatijnet1 wrote:
One of the main things for long life is to not let the tank get too close to empty. Plenty of fuel means that the pump will stay cooler.

I've seen this rationale many times. But why would fuel tank level affect fuel pump temperature if the pumped fuel flows through both the pump and the pump motor housing?

Richard

One of the main things for long life is to not let the tank get too close to empty. Plenty of fuel means that the pump will stay cooler.

96 Southwind, original pump, no problems. I always keep at least half a tank of gas to help cool the pump.

Make sure your filter(s) are clean. I don't think it's necessary to replace the pump for preventative maintenance.
I have read that some have replaced the in tank pump with an external pump, it would be easier to replace in the event of a failure.
As you mentioned, it will fail at the worst time and location.

And, just because you get a new pump does not mean it will last 20 years, like the original.
I don't plan on doing anything with mine until it's necessary.

Thank you, Im at 77k miles. Runs great. But, im thinking that the fuel pump is something that can drop you stalled at worst possible time and place without warning. Or maybe not? Not sure.

At 74800 miles mines still running strong.