Electric Fuel Systems
Understand how Classic Collective can vastly improve the starting, performance and reliability of your classic by fitting a bespoke electric fuel system.
Electric fuel pumps: Why do I need one?
Even when a classic car is used regularly, it is rarely driven every day. Modern fuels deteriorate quickly when exposed to air, and while a car is parked, fuel remaining in the carburettors and fuel lines either evaporates or drains back to the tank. As a result, the engine must be cranked for an extended period before fresh fuel reaches the cylinders.
Depending on the condition of the mechanical fuel pump and starter motor, it can take up to a minute of cranking to deliver sufficient fuel for the engine to start. This prolonged cranking places unnecessary strain on the battery, starter motor, and associated wiring, often leading to poor starting performance and premature component wear.
Mechanical fuel pumps also deliver fuel in direct relation to engine speed. While this was adequate when these systems were designed, modern fuel is less volatile, and mechanical delivery is often inconsistent. The result is that the engine does not always receive the correct quantity of fuel at the precise moment it is needed, particularly during start-up and low-speed running.
Getting the right pump
There is no single solution that suits every carburetted engine, but the basic principles of fuel delivery remain the same. As with any well-considered upgrade, selecting the correct electric fuel pump starts with gathering the right information.
To specify the correct pump, the following factors must be known:
- The required fuel pressure, usually between 3 and 8 psi
- The necessary fuel flow rate, measured in litres or gallons per minute
- The intended mounting position, whether close to the fuel tank or nearer the engine
While there are several manufacturers to choose from, for low to medium fuel pressures we generally specify SU electric fuel pumps for most classic cars. For higher-pressure applications, we use Holley pumps. Both have proven to be robust and reliable across a wide range of installations.
Regulate for best performance
Selecting the correct fuel pump is an important first step, but for a properly engineered electronic fuel delivery system it must be paired with a high-quality fuel pressure regulator.
We use Malpassi Filter King regulators, mounted in the engine bay close to the carburettor. These units perform three key functions:
- They are fully adjustable, ensuring the carburettor receives the correct fuel pressure at all times.
- An integrated glass bowl and filter capture debris before it reaches the carburettor. The clear bowl also allows visual confirmation of fuel supply during fault diagnosis.
- They retain a small volume of fuel within the engine bay, aiding rapid starting after periods of inactivity.
Fitting & costs
Every car has different requirements, especially if you are using other performance enhancing products such as K&N air filters, free flow exhaust or electronic ignition. Get in touch with the workshop and we will be able to work out a bespoke quote for your vehicle.
Get your car booked in today
With a dedicated upgrades team we can provide a rapid response for fitting electronic fuel delivery systems. Call us or click the button below to contact us and we can have your classic collected and on the ramp in just 24 hours!
CALL – 01869 221 870
To install this Web App in your iPhone/iPad press
and then Add to Home Screen.
