Fuel Lift Pump Questions

[leogallant]

On our 1973 Newport Mark II, we have a Vetus M3.10

What I can't find is a lift pump to bleed the lines after a service.

If you look at this photo of the engine, at the very bottom right, you'll see what I'm guessing is an electric fuel lift pump? Looks like a little black coffee can, with fuel lines. The former owners said to turn on the Blower switch on the DC panel before starting engine. When we turn on "Blower", this little coffee can is what makes the noise as if a little motor is running.

If this is indeed the fuel pump, I'm wondering what the proper procedure is for bleeding the lines?

[jsaronson]

Isn't that an electric lift pump on the bottom right of the photo? I don't think they are bled.

[BELLATRIX1965]

Yup, that looks like an electric fuel lift pump.
2 things: 1st: I would strongly suggest that you re-label that switch to indicate the proper device that it powers; and 2nd: You can bleed that fuel filter (and the lift pump/hoses) via the vent screw on top of the filter assembly (it looks like a bolt) - just make sure to have two people (one to operate the switch and shut it off when you get fuel out the vent) and have a drip pan / diapers to catch any fuel spilled in the process. Best to keep the fuel OUT of the bilge!

[leogallant]

That's what we're thinking. I had hear that too about bleeding if there is an electric one. Just wanting to make sure that it really is an electric pump.

[leogallant]

Originally Posted by BELLATRIX1965

Yup, that looks like an electric fuel lift pump.
2 things: 1st: I would strongly suggest that you re-label that switch to indicate the proper device that it powers; and 2nd: You can bleed that fuel filter (and the lift pump/hoses) via the vent screw on top of the filter assembly (it looks like a bolt) - just make sure to have two people (one to operate the switch and shut it off when you get fuel out the vent) and have a drip pan / diapers to catch any fuel spilled in the process. Best to keep the fuel OUT of the bilge!

That makes sense, thanks!

[leogallant]

So then, seeing there isn't actually a blower installed in the engine compartment, should i consider adding one? This is a diesel engine, and as you can see in the former picture, it is not a sealed off engine compartment.

[jsaronson]

No need with a diesel. Vapors don't collect and ignite like gas.

[leogallant]

That's what I thought, but wanted to double check. Thanks so much!

[Stu Jackson]

Originally Posted by BELLATRIX1965

1. Yup, that looks like an electric fuel lift pump.

2. - just make sure to have two people (one to operate the switch and shut it off when you get fuel out the vent) and have a drip pan / diapers to catch any fuel spilled in the process. Best to keep the fuel OUT of the bilge!

1. Fuel lines to it and wires to it. Hmm, could be a giveaway...

2. Here's an idea to avoid needing two people: splice into the power wire or the ground of the lift pump, and add a simple toggle switch inside the engine compartment. Label it "Fuel Pump Shutoff" and when the fuel starts coming out of the hole when you replace the secondary filter on the engine, just shut it off down there. Of course, you can use that second person to get you a beer, since you won't spill a drop!

Nice oil filter, BTW, great to see one in the right orientation so it won't drip all over when you remove it.

[dabnis]

A little more info on electric pumps:

The Diesel Page, Electric Lift Pump and Racor Filter installation

Paul T