Can fuel pumps be run dry?

JapCarForum Cars, Cars, Cars! General Car Maintenance Can fuel pumps be run dry?

jimxms
Posting Freak

2,473

06-04-2019, 05:18 AM

I want to test a fuel pump I've purchased before installing it. However I know from experiences in other trades that submersible pumps generally don't like being run dry.

On the other hand, I'd imagine that fuel pumps must be able to tolerate it a bit just in case the fuel tank is run dry (unless they have auto cut-off?)?

Advice appreciated.

jimxms

06-04-2019, 05:18 AM #1

Phil01
Posting Freak

2,004

06-04-2019, 08:27 AM

they can be run up for a second or two mate just to test but not for a continuous time as overheating will occur and no lube to cool the bearings if it is in a dry state.

Phil01

06-04-2019, 08:27 AM #2

they can be run up for a second or two mate just to test but not for a continuous time as overheating will occur and no lube to cool the bearings if it is in a dry state.

jimxms
Posting Freak

2,473

06-04-2019, 08:29 AM

Cool. I'm assuming the Walbro will arrive with bare wires, so I'll just hook it up to a 12v PSU for a couple of seconds to make sure it fires up.

I'm guessing though that if I installed a dead fuel pump, the car just wouldn't start - rather than doing any actual damage?