Removing CAV injector pump for overhaul - Ford 3000

v23nb · Jan 3, 2015

Have done a search but not found any helpful info. I have a 1971 diesel Ford 3000 that ran to a halt one day shortly after starting after a break of about a month from previous use. It is a fueling issue. Filter replaced, tank screen replaced, tank flushed, new diesel put in (half a tank full), system bled but tractor starts and runs for about 10 seconds before dying. Pulled the injectors and cleaned them (vast improvement in the spray pattern) and now it starts and runs for about 20 seconds before dying. Identified a point in the CAV injector pump that seems to be letting air in on the main body (although it does not leak any diesel). If I spray WD40 on the area when the engine is running I can keep it running for longer (albeit at reduced revs) and then when I stop spraying the engine dies. The leak seems to be in a paper gasket that sits between the upper and lower parts of the pump. I have a friend who is able to rebuild the pump for me (I know it is not generally considered a job for amateurs) but I need to remove it to take to him. I have read the workshop manual (chapter 2 section 6A) and understand that I need to disconnect the associated pipes and control linkages. It then says to remove the timing cover on the front cylinder cover and remove the 3 gear to pump bolts. Then remove the 3 pump to engine front cover plate mounting bolts and remove the pump.
This actually sounds quite simple to do so if anyone here has done this before is it as simple as it sounds? Are these bolts all easily accessible or are any special tools needed?

doxford jim · Jan 3, 2015

Before going to all that trouble, why not try sealing the gap with some RTV silicon ? The leak is not under pressure but allows air to be drawn into the fuel pump - is that correct ? Clean the area properly and after drying, seal it with the RTV silicon. You should see then, if that is the real problem. Once this is done, you can then decide what needs to be done - until then you are really just guessing. I can think of several things it might be - all a lot cheaper than rebuilding a CAV fuel injection pump. I think the KISS principal is applicable in this instance.

pmsmechanic · Jan 3, 2015

If the injection pump is leaking out of the square bump on the side you can take that off and put a new gasket in without removing the pump.

v23nb · Jan 4, 2015

Thank you gentlemen, exceedingly useful info. Under normal circumstances I would do exactly as you suggest however I have a great friend who is prepared to zero time my current pump for me. The pump has lasted 44 years so far, so maybe taking the opportunity to replace all the consumable components for the cost of the repair kit (£20) and securing the future of such an expensive component is too good an opportunity to miss! Bearing in mind the injectors are now good as new and the filters have been replaced it would be a shame to still have one solitary old item in the fuel system.

v23nb · Jan 7, 2015

Finally got round to doing this today. Was as easy as the manual says. I would suggest disconnecting the battery first as everything is very proximate to exposed terminals on the back of the starter! Just waiting for the kit to arrive and then it's time to have a go at the pump itself. Eek!