Own a vintage Jeep? Lucky you! These classic vehicles provide plenty of fun, whether you’re just driving around, showing it off at a car show, or heading off-road. Of course, that fun requires plenty of restoration work, maintenance, and vigilance. Vigilance is an important tool since it allows you to fix minor problems before they become major ones. Fuel pumps, for example, deliver several warning signals before they fail. Learn to recognize these five signs that your fuel pump is going out.
Sputtering Engine
Is your engine sputtering? That’s never good. It’s the most noticeable sign of a failing fuel pump and commonly happens at very high speeds. If your Jeep’s engine sputters or stalls while driving, the fuel pump may be struggling to deliver consistent fuel flow to the engine. This inconsistency leads to poor and inefficient performance and could leave you stranded if not immediately taken care of.
Hard To Start
Has your Jeep’s get-up-and-go gotten up and gone? A failing fuel pump is often the culprit of a Jeep that’s struggling to start. When the fuel pump starts to wear out, it takes longer for the engine to get the fuel it needs to ignite. Cranking the engine multiple times before it starts suggests a fuel pump inspection is in order.
Loss of Power Under Heavy Load
If your Jeep is a working vehicle or you often use it to haul trailers and other heavy items, note how it handles over time. If your Jeep loses power while climbing hills, towing and winching, or carrying heavy loads, a poor fuel pump might be the reason. Worn-out pumps can’t provide enough fuel during high-demand situations, leading to a noticeable drop in power. Check the fuel pump and repair or replace it if it needs it.
High-Pitched Whining Noise
Nobody likes a whiner. A high-pitched whining noise coming from the fuel tank area could mean the pump is working harder than usual to deliver fuel. If you hear this sound, take care of it promptly to prevent any further damage to the vehicle and engine.
Engine Stalling
Stalling is never ever a sign of a healthy vehicle. Engine stalling, especially when a Jeep is idling, is a clear sign that your fuel pump might be failing. Stalling happens when the pump cannot maintain the pressure to keep the engine running. If your Jeep stalls frequently, have the fuel pump checked and replaced.
Those are just five signs that your fuel pump is going out. Watch for these signs, but take preemptive steps by regularly servicing and inspecting your Jeep. If you need expert help with your Willys Jeep restoration, contact us. We offer a slew of parts and services that will keep your Jeep running.