Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Relocate LP, Pusher Pump or FASS?

[The Adjuster]

Hi all,



I have 125,000 on my truck now and still have the original LP & VP44 BUT my fuel pressure is slowly dropping at 120K I had 12psi at idle and 7psi at WOT, now at 125K I have 11psi at idle and am down to 5psi at WOT, so it is time to do some fuel work.



I know the relocation would be the cheapest option followed by the pusher pump option and then the FASS as the most expensive.



My truck is basically stock at the moment but want to ad some goodies in the next few months a Edge Comp (no wire tap) some EDM 1. 5's, a Scotty 2 and a good 4" exhaust.



My question is which way do I go with the fuel system upgrade? Since it looks as if I will have to get a new LP before much longer would I be better off to put that money towards the purchase of a FASS, or just buy a new LP and relocate it near the tank, or buy a new LP and Pusher and go that route?



Which system has proved most reliable as I put about 50K per year on the truck?



Thanks



Kevin

 

[PRout]

Welcome to the TDR,



It looks like you have been doing some reading on this already by the details in your post, so good for you.



You ask a good question, as you can see, most of the TDR members have been wrestling w/ this one for a while.



Bottom line is there doesnt seem to be any clear answer (yet) as to which solution is best. Its one of those things like, which option works best for you.



Some of the more "tinkerer" types have been trying different homebrew solutions to save money, w/ some success.



Others that dont have the time, or the mechanical ability, or just the will to try one thing after another are going w/ the more expensive solutions (PE4200, FASS, Preporator, Aeromotive), hoping for a one time solution.



One thing that is clear is whatever you decide on, you need unrestricted flow to the VP44, by replacing the stock feedlines to it. That is a common denominator. Another one, is the pickup tube in the tank has to be clean enough to allow the fuel to be lifted from the tank, or it will eventually kill the lift pump from overwork.



Another common issue seems to be having a good electrical connection to the lift pump (corrosion/connector loss).



The FASS was my choice. Time will tell if it was the way to go. It comes down to what will last longer 1 Fass for $600, or 4 OEM lift pumps at $150ea (plus the PITA factor of changing them out, and maybe in a bad place). Also, is the adjustable, and more constant pressure of the Fass healthier for the VP44?



Anyways, thats my vague answer/question, and will let the gang get their opinions in.



Just do your homework first, as there is alot of info in the history of these forums, and Im sure you will get alot of different answers. It will be interesting.

 

[wes reeves]

I'm in the same situation, and also have been searching the forums. Another alternative I have read about is the Wildcat max-flow kit. I'm waiting on more information regarding it, but I am open to all suggestions.



I have looked long and hard at the FASS, but I am having a hard time justifying that kind of money. At the same time $600 may not seem so bad if the VP44 goes out.

 

[The Adjuster]

Wes,



I am at the point that I know I have to spend money on a LP in the next week or two, so do I put that $200 towards something bigger an better and hopefully not have to worry about it again for a few years or risk having another LP go out in say 6 - 8 months, I guess I have been lucky to get 125K on this one, which is a lot more miles than others here on the TDR



... Something I fogot to say in my first post was that I religiously pour in 4 fl/oz of Lucas Diesel Lubricant to EVERY tankfull of diesel, maybe thats attributed to the extended life of the LP ... maybe not ... might just have to only well made LP out there . . LOL



Kevin

 

[wes reeves]

The original lift pump on my truck was replaced at 50K miles by the dealer. The second one now has about 53K miles on it. I don't have a fuel pressure guage yet so I dont know what kind of pressure it's making. It still makes noise when I bump the starter, but I don't put much confidence in how much pressure it's making.



I'm going to install a fuel pressure guage and probably a wildcat max-flow kit in two weeks, until then I guess I'll just keep my fingers crossed that the VP-44 isn't running on borrowed time.

 

[DwayneKelch]

Kevin, Wes,



As you guys have read, there are many alternatives to increase volume and pressure. Guess it really depends on your hp goal. The more horsepower, the more volume of fuel you'll need, and the ability to maintain acceptable pressures.



I was in the same dilemma, but knew I didn't want to exceed 350hp. So, I chose to install the Wildcat Max Flow kit. Basically, it enhances fuel flow by increasing line/fitting inside diameters. By doing this, back pressure at the outlet side of the LP, compared to OEM fittings/lines, has been decreased, thereby minimizing cycling of the pressure relief valve (fuel bypass) inside LP. Continuous cycling of the spring in the fuel bypass weakens it to the point where it takes less pressure to cycle it, providing lower line pressures.



Before I installed the kit, with a new LP and no fueling mods (box, injectors, etc), my pressures were: idle (14. 5), cruising speed (11. 5), WOT (8. 5).



After installing the kit my pressures were: idle (15), cruising (13), WOT (11). Soon after, I installed the DD-TTPM and my pressures didn't change at all (box on #2 setting). Getting ready to install EDM 1. 5s, hope not to see much change... I could live with 10 psi.



Dealer replaced first pump, under warranty, at 56K miles. Expect to see this one last a little longer, time will tell.



Good luck in your quest...





Dwayne

 

[OPoole]

i run a carter pump back at the tank my stock lift pump went out at 18,000 miles! went with a 15psi. carter at the tank 3/8 hose with push-lock fitting. no more banjo bolts. 14psi. at idle 9psi wot with a edge drag on 5x5 and 125hp injectors.

 

[DwayneKelch]

OPoole,



Sounds as if you found the right combo. What Carter are you running?





Dwayne

 

[jjohn]

Aeroquip -6AN

I just installed a complete dash 6 (-6AN or 3/8 ) Aeroquip fuel system, AQP line, push on connectors and Aeroquip Weber carb adapters. From Summit Racing.



I have a new Lift pump in the stock location - 14-15 Idle (warm),

cruse at 75mph 13 psi, WOT 10 psi.



I was sucking it down to 6 psi WOT with the new LP and stock banjos and fuel line, cruse was at 10-11 psi.



I have a pusher pump kit but ran out of time and didn't get it installed.





PICTURES AND PARTS LIST ON THIS LINK

 

[RPainter]

Were do I get info on the wildcat max flow setup?

Randy

 

[jjohn]

http://wildcatdiesel.com/dodge.htm

http://wildcatdiesel.com/dodge.htm



select on fuel systems on the left.

Randy I believe the Max flow Kit is on back order.

 

[KOdegaard]

I just had the carter fail at 2000 miles, I just ordered the FASS.

The carter started at 13 PSI and 10 PSI WOT and always seemed

to be loosing then last weekend on way to get new 5th wheel

It drops to 4PSI ) at any load got home checked pump on bench

and 6 PSI, these things are junk as far as I am concerned. Do not

waste your money.

KO

 

[DwayneKelch]

Randy,



jjohn is correct. Wildcat Diesel has been overwhelmed with orders. The demand has put them (actually their suppliers) behind.



Great kit, worth the wait.





Dwayne