320 Fuel system

[Gumby542]

Ok, so one voltage regulator later the charging system is good again.

Now, the fuel system question.
I thought I had it figured out, but my theory bombed. After various amounts of time, the tractor Stalls out. The fuel filter is bone dry when this happens. Originally I thought e fender was crushing the fuel line because it happened twice when on a side hill. However it has done it to me twice since on flat ground. So my question is whether or not I should replace e fuel pump first or clean the fuel tank first. Are the fuel pumps still suspect on these, or is it more likely to be crud in the tank? It looks like the fuel pump is $125 ish, so I'm thinking fuel tank first, as it did live outside. Does that make sense?

 

[Eric Barney]

Always start with a clean fuel tank. Then work from there. You certainly do not want dirty fuel going in to a new $125 pump do you?

Fuel pumps can also be easily tested. (With a pressure gauge) If it makes a few PSI of pressure it is OK. Dirt entering it can cause the check valves to not close. That wil stop the flow of fuel.

Fuel contamination has to be the #1 cause of poor running in these lawn/garden tractors

 

[Gumby542]

Thanks.
Is it easiest to pull the body and take the tank right off or try to do it through the filler neck?

 

[Eric Barney]

Thanks.
Is it easiest to pull the body and take the tank right off or try to do it through the filler neck?

Off with the body! The tank is easily removed, and much easier to clean that way. Besides, with the fender/body off, you won't believe how much dirt and grass gets trapped there. It will allow inspection of all sorts of stuff while cleaning it up.

 

[Gumby542]

Then off with the body it is.

Thanks again

 

[Gumby542]

Cleaned fuel tank. Turns out the fuel line coming off tank was shot. It was hard, crusty and had almost no air moving through it when I blew into it. Replaced it, going to reassemble tomorrow.

 

[Eric Barney]

I read somewhere, that the new tank pick-up tubes have a check valve that prevents drain-back of the fuel. Makes for a much quicker starting engine after an extended time without use.

Glad to hear that you have things under control...