Lift Pump Pre-Filter

[Ncostello]

During my upgrade project of the supply fuel lines from the tank to the VP-44, I am also moving the OEM lift pump down to the frame... but not all the way back to the tank. I would like to remove the screen inside the OEM pump and install an inline stainless screen filter in addition to a shutoff valve. A pre-filter screen would be easier to clean and check if it was external of the pump body.



I have found a quality unit from Peterson Fluid Systems that is inline, uses -6 or -8 fittings on each end, and has an intergal shutoff valve so fuel can be shut-off for cleaning (or even LP changes). It looks to be approximately 2" dia x 6" long cylindrical.



My question is that the stainless internal filter comes in 45, 60, or 100 micron ratings. Which would be ideal for a pre-lift pump strainer. I was thinking the 100 should do most of what needs done prior to fuel entering the LP. Plus it would offer the least resistance to flow.



The filter is removable and cleanable. The stainless screen should last for quite some time. And it looks to be a proven design used by Nascar teams. The shutoff valve would kill two birds and would help eliminate more fittings to install one somewhere else. Thanks in advance for replys.

 

[illflem]

I don't think I'd want a filter under the truck with a polycarbonate or glass bowl for fear of a flying rock getting it. Metal bowl would be best if they offer one.

 

[Ncostello]

illflem. . not to worry. Its one of those aluminum cylindrical units with a stainless cartridge in it. Cleanable and tough looking.

 

[Ncostello]

Photo of filter assy with the shutoff valve and AN fittings.

 

[rweis]

I put a prefilter canister on mine, but mine does not have a shutoff.



I think the screen on mine is 30 micron and finer than the LP screen. As long as the screen is as fine as the screen in the LP I think it would be suitable.



I like your solution MUCH better and will watch the post to see what screen size you choose.



Simply LOVE TDR,



Bob Weis

 

[Ncostello]

I think getting that screen outta the lift pump might help it a little. It sure wont hurt it any. I'm not for sure and it would be hard to determine but the internal screen could produce some undesirable flow characteristics inside the pump. I'd much rather have my screen well upstream of the lift pump so that flow is uninhibited in and out of the pump to as much a degree as possible.



That integral shutoff is neat too... one less plumbing item, two less fittings (keep $$$ down), and one less thing that causes friction losses. This unit is very similar to the PE filter unit which can flow enough fuel to float a small ship. And it will be super easy to clean.



I will most likely go with the 60 or 100 since the pump should be able to pass stuff that small and the final filter will catch that.

 

[Edward]

Ncostello



Great idea! I have upgraded my fuel supply system so it is -6 from the tank to the VP44. I custom made some –6X12mm fittings that allowed me to completely get rid of the restrictive banjo bolts. The 5/16 (filter to VP44) and 3/16 (lift pump to fuel filter) line restrictions are also eliminated. I didn't include a pre-filter, but I like what I see. The shut off included is also a great asset. Keep us posted.



Edward

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Edelbrock Billet

I use this for my prefilter. Got it with the -8AN fitting. Works great. Flow rating is over 1000 GPH. No shutoff though. I think I like Nconstello's better.

http://www.spmotorsports.com/misc_fuelfilters.html

 

[Ncostello]

Their website is www.petersonfluidsys.com



Looks like they have alot of neat items that could help us out. Mostly looks like they deal with stock car racing parts.



These items are under the "filters" section. The sizes go from -6 to -12 sizes. The stainless filter screen is coated with teflon or something like that and is compatible with all fuels it says. I'm calling them today for prices.



EDIT: Looks like they are willing to give a discounted price of $138. 00. Not too bad for high quality equipment. . plus the shutoff. They said no problem with diesel as some even use them to filter oil.

 

[EricBu12]

Heres my setup, I used a racor 30 micron spin on filter and a carter 7# pump. There is a shut-off valve so I can drain the bowla nd change the filter. It has a separate heater element and a water det. and a detector when the filter gets clogged.