Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

[alanwp]

My 2000 4.3 GL fuel pump quit working at startup. The pump runs OK when I jump the Y/R wire at relay socket 87 to the battery. I've put in a new pump relay and cleaned the relay sockets and alternator terminals but still won't start. I coupled a short length of clear tubing to the pump and verified the pump is not energized when I crank the engine. Could it be a problem with the starter relay? I'd appreciate any advice.

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

Does it run ok once you get it started with the relay in place? Do you have power to the 30 terminal on the fuel pump relay socket?
Have you checked the 7.5A fuse for the fuel pump?

Are you sure you have a 2000 model engine or is that just the year of your boat? It's not uncommon for engines to be a year older or even newer than the boat. FULL model number or serial number is best instead of year.

 

[alanwp]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

The engine is a 2000 Volvo Penta 4.3 GLSX S/N 4012020204 in a Chaparral. It will run for a short while with the relay in place if I prime the carb. Tomorrow I'll check the 7.5A fuse and power to the 30 terminal socket and report back. Thanks for your advice.

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

No, you do not have a model 4.3 GLSX that is not a model number, using your serial number I found your model number and it's 4.3GLPEFS.
Keep that handy, it's important when looking for parts.

Here is another thread with info on checking the pumps electrical system that might help you with your problem.
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?p=2715541#post2715541

 

[alanwp]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

I have no power to relay 30 socket with power on. I don't see a 7.5A fuse or breaker in the engine compartment to the fuel pump. I also checked fuses and breakers in the console and all OK. Where is a likely fault to occur in the R/PU wire? I know it should stay energized once the power select is on. Unfortunately I have no wiring diagram for my 4.3GLPEFS. Thanks again!

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

Pull the cover off the circuit breaker box mounted on the front of the starboard exhaust elbow. Inside is several fuses.

 

[HalfFish5087]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

I am having similar problem as the alanwp. My pump will not come on while cranking. I thought that it was weird that the pump would not come on while it was cranking. Therefore, I contacted a marine mechanic and he informed me that the pump should not come on while cranking. From what Don is saying, it sounds like I have gotten more bad information from a mechanic.

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

Yes, you got bad info from your mechanic. Volvo has used the same setup for all their carbed engines with electric fuel pumps. The only thing that really changes is the location of the fuse or circuit breaker (depending on model).

 

[alanwp]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

You're a wealth of VP knowledge. I knew a 50A breaker resided back there but not the fuses. I'll check it out (when it stops raining) - Alan

 

[alanwp]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

Don: I carefully followed the steps outlined in your Post 2715541 and everything checks out. The pump runs but I'm still not getting fuel to the carb. The pump is 13 years old with over 500 hrs on the engine. With this in mind is it possible the pump is wearing out and not producing enough pressure? Thanks again.

 

[Maclin]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

You can perform a vacuum test on the pump to see how much it can draw, there are vacuum gauges designed just for that, and the test can show if the pump is healthy or not. I do not know the specs for the pump, but if it is low on the draw then it is time for a new pump. If the draw is within specs then there may be a problem between the pump and the pickup in the tank, like cracked or leaking lines or hoses, plugged anti-siphon valve (this is usually the fitting on top of the tank), or plugged intake.

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

You might try removing the pump from the filter housing and checking the inlet screen in the pump. It could be partially plugged with debris.

 

[alanwp]

Re: Volvo 4.3 GL Fuel Pump Problem

Don: After all the suggested tests and steps including the anti-siphon valve checked out OK, I replaced the pump. Happy to say my 4.3 GL is up and running again! I assumed the pump was no longer running at its rated pressure due to age. I appreciate all the valuable advice I received in this forum. Alan