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Bellows Fuel Pump question

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DerekJ

DerekJ

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Guys

I have a Walbro 2401 bellows pump which has given up after 8 years. Ive ordered a replacement from the US of A (only $55 BTW).

While waiting Ive disassembled the old one with the idea of repairing and retaining as a spare. The pump wasnt clicking and I had checked all the circuits, so Im assuming its the points. However they dont look too bad but the bellows themselves are holed and need replacing.

My question: Would the hole in the bellows cause flooding which would automatically stop the pump or would it continue to operate albeit ineffectively. If its the second then I suppose the problem must be points. I'll order both but I was just interested to know what you think.
 
Hi Derek,
I haven't seen a "bellows" type pump since the old "Auto Pulse" units. About the same age as the Stewart-Warner diaphram pumps. If the bellows leaks, the contacts will get wet but the pump will usually still work for a while until carbon build up stops the point contact. It's likely that you could clean the points, replace the bellows, & have a working pump.

I note that the 2401 is rated at 4 to 6 psi. The 2402 is rated at 2.5 to 4 psi. You might consider a pressure reducing regulator if the pressure from the 2401 appears to be too high for your carbs.
D
 
Hi Dave

I thought you would reply..thanks as usual.

In fact there was some black (presumably) carbon build up. It was superficial and was easy to wipe off, the points themselves were not pitted in any way.

I guess this pump is quite an antique design..I kind of quite like it. The PO fitted it when he did the restoration. Thats an interesting point you make about the rating. I hope it hasnt been changed - I have never experienced any problem in the way it has operated. I better check with Walbro

thanks

Derek
 
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