In Tank Lift Pump - Installed External Spare / Stand-by Pump

[JCHrest]

I am sure many members have performed this type of mod and am looking for some opinions and recommendations.
Quickly, I am a total DIY'er and try and prepare for failures that can leave me stranded.

To that end I am planning to install a method to get fuel out of the main tank and to the the injector pump in the event that the in tank lift pump fails.

I am not planning a "flip of the switch" type auxillary pump install but one that would require a couple tools, and some minor moving of wires and hose connections upon primary pump failure.

I am thinking of using the BD Auxiliary Pump Kit 1050226. Install this kit, connect all electrical and fuel line fittings, run / prime the pump, run the truck, verify proper fuel pressure and flow then disconnect. Also considering adding Tee's and / or check valves so that the fuel line connection(s) may remain installed. Maybe something similar for the electrical portion.


One question for members: Can I get fuel out of the tank without installing a new suction tube? The new tube and tank modification would be the most labor intensive part of the job if required.


Looking for any feedback on my plan or alternate plans that members have successfully installed.

BTW - I think I was born being my own warranty station. I really hate anybody's hands touching my truck anyway!!! Many "warranty repairs" have been made on the side of the road and in parking lots.

 

[Allnew2Me]

I don't think you would be able to draw through the in-tank lift pump with another external pump. To use a system like I did below or what you describe I believe you would have to just eliminate the in-tank pump and replace it with an auxiliary frame-mount version and a dip tube from the start.


Here is a thread I posted a while back. I used two pumps that require the flipping of two ball valves to change over to another in-place pump. You can do this with two pumps plumbed in parallel also with check valves that allow the powered pump to flow while the second check valve closes to prevent backflow through the other pump. By throwing a switch to power the other pump the process reverses automatically.

I did this so I would never have to change a pump on the side of the road and so far it has been working great. I change over the pumps every few months just to run them. With that said, the FASS has never missed a beat and the spare I have has so far never been used, but it is nice to know it is there.

https://www.turbodieselregister.com/forums/showthread.php?190424-No-more-lift-pump-troubles-for-me!

 

[JCHrest]

Thanks this is perfect information. Very nice job I may add. I like the 1/4 turn ball valves. Simple and very robust. Def a consideration for my install.

I am thinking that I want to leave the in tank pump in place. As best I can tell from information that I have found ( or not found) the in tank pump seems to be very reliable. I just dont see dropping the tank on the side of the road a very pleasant endeavor. Although my hard head would probably have me trying it!! And in my case, with my luck, the failure would happen right after I filled the tank to the very top and about 5 miles after I just got back on the highway.

At least if I install the suction tube or other means to get fuel out of the tank at home in my shop the hardest part will be done in advance.

Thanks for the reply, great information