• drpq
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  • Registered: 2011-10-15
  • Posts: 4

Topic: Help with fuel pump

I've got a 71 Beetle that's been in storage.  Hasn't been started in about two years.  Today  I went to get it so I could bring it home and begin working on it, but it wouldn't start.  The problem is clear, it's not getting fuel past the fuel pump.  I took the filter out of the pump to see if it was boogered up with old gas, but it looked fine.  Gas did pour out of the hole when I unscrewed the filter cap. I suspect the fuel pump is gummed up inside, but I'm thinking the fuel line might be gummed too.  If I pull off the fuel hose from the gas tank to the fuel pump gas pours out, but not with lots of pressure.  Should that be a pretty high pressure stream?  I guess I'm wondering if the pump isn't getting enough fuel to prime or if the pump itself isn't working right.  Thoughts? Thanks.

  • From: Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Registered: 2005-09-10
  • Posts: 2,336

Re: Help with fuel pump

You could continue to troubleshoot the problem...or even give the fuel pump a good cleaning.  Or just get a new fuel pump for $15.96:

http://www2.cip1.com/ProductDetails.asp … D025%2DABC

http://www2.cip1.com/ProductDetails.asp … %2D025%2DD

You would just need to insure you have the 4.25" fuel pump pushrod.

HTH,

- Nick

1979 Super Beetle Convertible
  • drpq
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Re: Help with fuel pump

That's about what I figured, not too expensive to go that route and at least eliminate the pump from the equation.  Thanks for the links!

  • From: Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Registered: 2005-09-10
  • Posts: 2,336

Re: Help with fuel pump

drpq wrote:

That's about what I figured, not too expensive to go that route and at least eliminate the pump from the equation.  Thanks for the links!

Low cost was why I was suggesting a new one.  It could very well be that something is broken or damaged on the inside of the pump (the diaphragm for example).  And the cost of a rebuild kit will cost you the same or more than a whole new pump. 

Still...some folks feel the original fuel pump is better than the possibly lower quality new pumps being sold...and go the rebuild route instead.  Personally I would just save myself the time it takes to rebuild the pump...and just get a new one.  But I would hang onto the old pump just in case the new one doesn't work out in the long run...and/or if you decide to rebuild it later.

If you decide to purchase a new pump (or rebuild the old one)...please let us know how things worked out. smile

- Nick

1979 Super Beetle Convertible
  • drpq
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Re: Help with fuel pump

Sure, I see that point too.  I replaced the carb awhile back with a Brazillian one, but I held on to the original for that reason.  I'll rebuild it some cold Sunday afternoon, same with the fuel pump.  I can't see trashing the OEM stuff, I just don't have the patience right now and I'm no expert so it would take some time.

  • From: South Africa
  • Registered: 2004-11-11
  • Posts: 46

Re: Help with fuel pump

have you tried to pour a capful of fuel directly into the carb to see if it will start? Ive started beetles that have been standing longer than 2 years in this way.

'Keep on Rollin'
  • drpq
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Re: Help with fuel pump

jonnomans wrote:

have you tried to pour a capful of fuel directly into the carb to see if it will start? Ive started beetles that have been standing longer than 2 years in this way.

It'll fire up with gas or ether.  I can see the problem is fuel isn't getting past the pump.  Thre might be other issues, but I know that's the first thing I need to get sorted out.  Thanks.