Knowing how to service the fuel supply system is a life-saving skill. A poor fuel supply system pushes the car towards fuel starvation and halts it. Thus, this article will guide you through all aspects of knowing how to service the fuel supply system. We’ll take you through all the details, from replacing a flexible fuel pipe to installing new hoses using a screwdriver; we’ll take you through all the details!
What is a Fuel system?
Fuel systems in vehicles ensure all automobile functions are operated effectively by ensuring proper fuel supply. This is because fuel is required to run a vehicle’s internal combustion engine.
Thus, a fuel system works to supply the cylinder chamber with fuel. Here, the fuel is vaporized, combined with air, and burned for energy production.
Filters
Blocked filters are one of the biggest causes of fuel pipe issues. A plastic in-line type is one of the most common filters among other types. Look for the filter. It is shaped like a barrel and placed near the fuel pipes. Also, you can easily check whether the filter is blocked or not since it is transparent.
In-line fuel filter: servicing
Placed beneath the bonnet is the in-line fuel filter. It is in the gasoline pipe, surrounded by the carburetor and gasoline pump. Change the filter if it appears worn out, blocked, or faulty.
Remove the fixings that hold the filter to fuel pipes. Often used in many designs are Jubilee clips and union nuts. Finally, replace the older fixing with a newer one and place the arrow in the fuel flow’s direction.
Glass-bowl filter: servicing
The next aspect of knowing how to service the fuel supply system is servicing a glass bowl filter. A servicing glass bowl filter is placed inside the engine bay in a glass bowl. Furthermore, the bowl is secured using screws and bolts and mounted on steel. Check if your filter’s element is disposable or not or if it is possible to clean it. Hence, if it isn’t, replace it with a new one.
Trap petrol by placing a box beneath the clear-out bowl. Then, unscrew the knurled nut and place it beneath the glass bowl. Pour the petrol out by lowering the bowl. Use petrol and a brush to discard and clean out the clear-out element. Replace the filter after cleaning the filter bowl. Lastly, tighten the knurled nut.
Pipes
Placed in the fuel lines are rigid pipes consisting of plastic and flexible rubber hoses. The fuel lines travel towards the tank from the fuel pipes and then to the carburetor.
The hoses are very flexible. This flexibility leaves great room for movement between the components. In addition, some cars have rigid pipes composed of plastic instead of metal.
Inspection
You should do a yearly inspection of the fuel supply system’s pipes. Not inspecting it regularly means a fire hazard due to faulty hoses, connections, and pipes. Thus, to inspect a fuel supply system thoroughly, the following steps should be taken:
- Disconnecting the battery should be the first step in inspecting any element of your car’s engine to protect you from potential sparks.
- Now, lift the car using a jack to stand on an axle.
- Examine the pipe thoroughly and look for dark spots. Cover every joint.
- Check whether every single union pipe is connected tightly using a spanner.
- Check if there is rust or corrosion in all the steel pipes. If it is present, remove the rust from the surface using a wire brush.
- If pitted wrongly, replace pipes.
- Thoroughly inspect the connections and hoses for any cuts.
- Replace the pipe if you notice any hardness due to it being old or excessive softness because of the engine oil
- Now, ensure all the flexible pipes are free of corrosions with tight connections as they use plenty of securing clips. In addition, check if the pipe is chafing-free or not.
- Inspect the routing and ensure it maintains a safe distance from burning engine parts like the manifold and exhaust
- Finally, replace the hose or pipe in case of excessive damage. In addition, throw gasoline out of into a storage container to ensure safety.
How to replace a flexible fuel pipe
Following are the steps to replace a flexible fuel pipe:
- The first step is to undo the pipe’s clip. The clip will either be a wire clip or a jubilee-type clip. Always replace a wire clip using a Jubilee clip.
- Remove the pipe gently from the stubby, twisting from both sides. Don’t be harsh on the stub. Tugging it off harshly will only dislodge it.
- Gently free the pipe from the clip.
- Lastly, fit the flexible pipe. However, make sure not to tighten the stub too much.
How to replace a rigid fuel pipe
To replace a rigid fuel pipe, you should:
- Remove the fuel tank and the pipe
- Push the clip downwards.
- Now, gently remove the pipe.
- Lastly, be wary while withdrawing the pipes from the car as fuel often remains inside the pipes.
Installing new hoses
- Placed at both ends of flexible hoses are Jubilee-type clips. Use a screwdriver and loosen them. However, to fit the hoses, remove them using pliers if spring clips are used. Next, install new Jubilee clips in place of all spring clips.
- The next step is to release the hose by twisting and pulling it.
- Put some hot water over the hoses if they do not budge or cut it down as a last resort.
- While buying a new hose to replace the old one, make sure both have a similar inner diameter.
- Slide the new hose into its place after removing the old one. The hose should overlap the stub or pipe by at least 25mm. Lastly, tighten the hose by placing clips at both ends.
Emergency Repairs
Many times, you will have to face emergency leaks and damages. This is an integral part and parcel of learning the art of how to service the fuel supply system. So, let’s look at the best way to deal with such emergency repairs.
Leaking Hose:
- To repair a leaking hose, cut the hose to the point where it’s leaking and slide a rigid piping piece inside.
- Lastly, tie thin wires around the pipe to secure it
Fuel Leaks:
- Dry the area around the leak and wrap it thoroughly and tightly using polyethylene to fix fuel leaks. Finally, secure the polythene by using a wire and insulating tape.
Conclusion
To sum up, a healthy fuel system means a healthy engine and, thus, a healthy car. Therefore, as a driver, you must learn how to service the fuel supply system if you wish to make your car run faster or prolong your car’s life.
