Ideally, no motorcycle or snowmobile can run without fuel, unless it’s electric. Therefore, maintaining fueling motorcycle parts is crucial. You should keep components such as the fuel pump, whose work is to pump fuel from the tank to the engine well maintained.
Although sometimes your fueling motorcycle parts might last your motorcycle’s entire life, sometimes they might develop problems. However, in some instances, fuel pump repair is not an option, necessitating a replacement. Since fueling motorcycle parts don’t require regular maintenance, ensure that you perform proper diagnosis before replacement.
Signs of a Defective Fuel Pump
Considering how vital a fuel pump is in your motorcycle or snowmobile system, a faulty fuel pump is by no means a light matter. Therefore, it is crucial to know some of the signs of a problematic fuel pump to avoid finding out when it’s too late.
Sputtering Engine at High Speed
This is one of the most straight forward indicators that there is something wrong with your fuel pump. If you are at a consistently high speed, then your motorcycle sputters momentarily before returning to normal, get it checked. The sputtering is as a result of the pump being in a state of struggle while conveying fuel to the engine at the right pressure.
Hotter Than Usual?
If you notice a significant rise in temperature, it is a red flag already. Watch the temperature gauge to detect any changes. Mainly, if a stall follows the temperature rise, it indicates a problem. Continued stalling means your fueling motorcycle parts are gradually deteriorating, calling for a replacement.
Not Enough Pressure
The motorcycle manual indicates what fuel pressure should be considered normal. From your motorcycle’s fuel pressure gauge, you can see the pressure at which the pump is pumping the fuel to the engine. If it is below what is indicated in the manual, then the pump has a problem and requires immediate attention.
Stress Intolerance
In some instances, you subject your machine to stress, such as riding uphill. If your fuel pump has a malfunction, it will show some weakness such as failing to meet the engine’s fuel demands. Once the needs are not met, your motorcycle will have an overall power loss.
Surging
Sometimes, your snowmobile or ATV can surge forward even without you altering the gas pedal. When that happens, it is a sign that your fuel pump is defective and needs a fuel pump repair or replacement altogether.
Lower Gas Mileage
If your fuel pump is faulty, you might need to refill more frequently. Typically, fuel pumps are fitted with a relief valve. If it does not open, more fuel than usual will find its way to the engine. Besides, this could even lead to an accident if not handled in a good time.
Failed Engine
If you don’t pay attention to minor signs that we have mentioned above, it will build up to a bigger problem. The engine fails if no fuel at all reaches it upon ignition.
Installing a Fuel Filter
When the fuel is moving from the tank to the engine, it might collect some particles along the way, consequently clogging the fuel lines and the carburetor. A fuel filter comes in handy and ensures that none of that happens.
Although some engines come with filters during the purchase, others don’t. If your motorcycle does not have a filter, then you need to install one to avoid problems in the future. Before starting the installation, ensure that you observe safety precautions such as putting on gloves and working away from heat.
Once you have prepared your working space properly, run the fuel lines dry by leaving the petcock on then start the engine. After a minute or two, you can now turn the petcock off. Once you are done with this step, you can proceed with the actual installation.
There are two ways of installing, and the choice is yours. The first option is detaching the hose and work while it’s off of your bike. Alternatively, you can install the filter without disconnecting the hose.
Once you have installed it, you can secure your filter in place by using a clamp or clip on each end, then tighten them down.
