As a boater, you know how important it is to have a properly functioning fuel system. The fuel pump is a crucial component that ensures the fuel flows from the tank to the engine. If you encounter any issues with your fuel pump, it can cause serious problems for your vessel. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fuel pumps on boats, from troubleshooting to maintenance.

Understanding the Fuel Pump System

The fuel pump system consists of a fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, and a fuel tank. The fuel pump is responsible for pumping fuel from the tank to the engine. It’s important to note that the fuel pump works in conjunction with the fuel filter, which ensures that any impurities or debris in the fuel are removed before it reaches the engine.

A fuel pump is an important element of your boat motor. And you have a volvo penta fuel pump for your boat. It can get frustrating if you start facing problems using it.

So you must know what the problem is and how to troubleshoot it. Then what are the volvo penta fuel pump problems?

With your volvo penta fuel pump, you can face a lot of problems. Well, the problem could be loss of power and it’s pretty common. Sometimes the fuel pump primes and never stops. It is another regular issue. Finally, irregular fuel pump, voltage, and power issues can make you face difficulties.

So what to do in this situation? Don’t worry, you won’t be needing a mechanical if you can easily trace the problem and troubleshoot it.

We have covered the problems along with troubleshooting. So let’s dig deep into the article.

Volvo Penta Fuel Pump Problems: 6 Problems & Solutions

Before you know the problem, you should know which model you have.

You should also be familiar with low-pressure, high-pressure fuel pumps. Even though both pumps put negative pressure to pass the fuel through the line. The low pressure between the tank and the pump can make the fuel vaporize itself in the supply line.

Now let’s get to know the problems of volvo penta fuel pumps in detail:

Problem 1: Loss of Power issue

Your boat might be losing power frequently. This can happen due to the fuel pump losing its power. Usually noticed at the top end. And your boat might not start again after that.

This problem could also lead to a continuous low whining sound. So what to do in this situation?

Solution

First check which pump is making the noise. Check this with a screwdriver. You can feel the heat burn from there.

The low-pressure pump filters the fuel and fills it into the fuel rail. Here the fuel acts as a cooling agent if the high-pressure pump gets hot. Because when it is hot, it starts making noise.

So, check the fuel line fitting. It is attached to the side of the fuel cell.

The stock fitting has a screen. And sometimes the screen gets blocked with paint chips. As a result, the pump gets stuck.

Reverse the polarity of the pump wires. This will reverse the direction and unclog the pump.

However, don’t try to remove the fuel line. This will lead to leaking and it won’t be possible to connect it back.

Problem 2: Fuel Pump Primes and Never Stops

You can notice this problem when you key the fuel pump. After it starts priming, it keeps spinning away.

Here the engine remains off even though the key is on. But it does not show a problem when the key is off.

It could get frustrating to keep the key on accidentally even though the engine is off.  And the pump keeps spinning.

Solution

Sometimes, the air is sucked into the lines. As a result, the pump keeps running because it can’t create pressure. So, check that first.

This problem isn’t something that dangerous. Often the pump doesn’t run all the time but the users don’t notice it.  The problem could also be volvo penta outdrive problems.

One doesn’t need fuel pressure to run the engine with a carburetor. So, if your engine remains off even if the key is on.

However, it is not advisable to keep the power on while the engine isn’t working.

Problem 3:  Voltage Issue

Sometimes, the fuel of the motor gets dumped into the car. The gas keeps getting dumped and as a result, your motor will run out of fuel in a short time.

Usually, It happens when the voltage isn’t at the right rate.

Solution

The voltage for the fuel pump is ideal at 12. Check that and fix it if needed. However, the rate can drop a little at a higher RPM.

Also depending on the psi, you might also have the wrong pump for a carburetor.

So you should choose the ideal pump to use. You can always take suggestions or consult with a mechanic about this.

Problem 4: Issue with Power

Sometimes, you might take your engine’s RPM to a higher level. This creates a problem. The engine starts to brawl and loses its power.

The power doesn’t turn on easily. It gets back on after shutting the engine completely.  You can also notice that a high buzzing sound is coming from the fuel pump.

This can be tiresome and frustrating if it happens in the middle of running. So what is the solution to this?

Solution

The problem usually happens when you have a clogged intel screen. You can find the intel screen on the back of the motor and fuel pump.

For an electric pump, the screen is at the end. You won’t have to take the pump apart. By just removing the pump you can find the screen.

However, in some cases, it could be behind the mounting bracket. So you’ll have to unscrew the bracket and you’ll find the screen.

To do that remove the pump from the VST. Then take out the banjo bolt and detach the metal line. The screen is at the end of the banjo bolt of the pump.

After that, you need to clean out the screen. To put everything back together, you will be needing O rings. Make sure the rings are designed for fuel. Otherwise, they will melt.

And that’s how you can identify the problems with volvo penta fuel pump problems and solve them. Make sure you are doing this with safety as it contains working with fuel.

Fuel problems usually arise due to excessive use. And it can affect the motor and engine. You can also face similar problems with johnson outboard fuel pumps.

Regular maintenance of the pump can make it last longer. So, make sure to check up on the pump once in a while.

Problem 5: Fuel pump not delivering enough fuel

If your boat’s fuel pump is not delivering enough fuel, it can lead to poor engine performance, stalling, and even engine failure. There are several possible causes for this problem:

• Clogged fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, resulting in reduced performance. Make sure to check and replace the fuel filter regularly.
• Faulty fuel pump: A faulty fuel pump may not be able to deliver enough fuel to the engine. Check the fuel pump for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
• Low fuel pressure: Low fuel pressure can also result in inadequate fuel delivery. Check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge, and replace any faulty components.

Solution

To fix this problem, you should start by checking the fuel filter and replacing it if necessary. If the fuel filter is not the issue, check the fuel pump for any signs of wear or damage. You may need to replace the fuel pump if it is faulty.

Finally, check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge and replace any components that are not functioning properly.

It is important to address this problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your boat’s engine. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help to prevent this problem from occurring in the first place.

Problem 6: Fuel pump making strange noises

If you hear strange noises coming from your boat’s fuel pump, it may be a sign of a problem. Here are some possible causes:

• Debris in the fuel system: Debris such as dirt or rust can get into the fuel system and cause the fuel pump to make unusual noises. Regularly cleaning the fuel system can help prevent this problem.
• Worn fuel pump bearings: Over time, the bearings in the fuel pump can wear out, causing it to make noise. If this is the case, the fuel pump may need to be replaced.
• Loose or damaged fuel lines: Loose or damaged fuel lines can cause air to get into the fuel system, resulting in unusual noises. Make sure to inspect the fuel lines for any damage or wear, and tighten any loose connections.

Solution

To fix this problem, start by inspecting the fuel system for any debris or contaminants.

If there is debris present, clean the fuel system thoroughly. If the fuel pump bearings are worn, the fuel pump may need to be replaced.

Additionally, make sure to inspect the fuel lines for any damage or wear, and tighten any loose connections.

If you hear strange noises coming from your fuel pump, it is important to address the issue promptly.

Ignoring the problem can result in further damage to your boat’s fuel system and engine.

Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent this problem from occurring in the first place.

Make sure to keep your fuel system clean and inspect it regularly for any signs of wear or damage.

FAQs

 

Can I run a volvo penta out of water?

You should not start to outboard without any water supply. It must be in water or connected to a hose. If you run without water, the vanes of the rubber water pump impeller can get damaged severely.

How to tell if my outboard fuel pump has gone bad?

The common symptoms are the pump slowing down, sputtering, gas-guzzling, faulty diaphragm, etc. Also, bad signs with the motor or engine can be a reason for the fuel pump going bad.

How long does it take to change a fuel pump?

Changing a fuel pump is an easy process. It won’t take more than 1-2 hours. It is suggested to take help from someone who is an expert in changing one.

How do you unclog a fuel pump?

You can use a fuel system cleaner to remove any sediment buildup or blockage if your boat has an electric fuel pump. If you have a manual one, which are typically found in earlier models of boats, you can actually open the pump to clean debris from its internal filter, but most newer boats don’t have that choice.

Conclusion

And that’s all for volvo penta fuel pump problems. We have covered all the common problems along with their solutions.

However, if you are still unable to solve it, call the customer service or a mechanic.

That’s all for today! Stay safe.