Discovery II
FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM - V8
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
19-2-7
Fuel pump
The fuel pump assembly comprises a top cover which locates the fuel pressure regulator, electrical connector and
fuel pipe coupling. The top cover is attached to a plastic cup shaped housing by two metal springs. The housing
locates the pump and the fuel gauge sender unit.
The lower part of the housing is the swirl pot, which maintains a constant fuel level at the fuel pick-up. A feed pipe
from the pump to the coupling connection and a return pipe from the regulator connect between the top cover and the
housing.
A coarse filter is attached to the base of the housing and prevents the ingress of large contaminants into the swirl pot.
A gauze filter prevents particles entering the fuel pump.
Surrounding the pump is a large fine paper filter element which further protects the fuel pressure regulator, engine
and injectors from particulate contamination. The paper filter is not a serviceable item and removes the requirement
for an external in-line filter.
A non-return valve is located in the base of the housing. When the fuel tank is full, fuel pressure keeps the valve lifted
from its seat allowing fuel to flow into the swirl pot. As the tank level reduces, the fuel pressure in the tank reduces
causing the valve to close. When the valve is closed fuel is retained in the swirl pot, ensuring that the swirl pot remains
full and maintains a constant supply to the fuel pump.
A four pin electrical connector is located on the top cover of the pump and provides power feed and return for fuel
pump and fuel gauge rotary potentiometer operation. A single quick release coupling connects the fuel feed pipe to
the outer top surface of the pump.
Two metal springs are attached to the top cover and the housing of the pump. When the pump is installed it seats on
the lower surface inside the tank. The springs exert a downward pressure on the pump and ensure that the pump is
located positively at the bottom of the fuel tank.
The fuel pump has a maximum current draw of 6.5 A at 12.5 V.
On NAS vehicles with vacuum type EVAP system leak detection capability only, the fuel pump top cover is fitted with
an On Board Diagnostics (OBD) pressure sensor. This sensor has a three pin electrical connector which provides a
connection between the sensor and the ECM. The sensor is sealed in the top cover with an 'O' ring and secured with
a clip. The sensor monitors tank pressure during OBD tests of the fuel evaporation system integrity. A hose is
connected to the sensor and is routed across the top of the fuel tank and terminates at the top of the fuel filler tube.
The pipe is open to atmosphere and provides atmospheric pressure for the sensor operation.
ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - V8, DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION, Description - engine
Fuel pressure regulator
The fuel pressure regulator is located in the underside of the top cover. The regulator is sealed with two 'O' rings and
retained with a clip.
The regulator is connected to the fuel feed pipe at the top of the pump housing and maintains the fuel pump delivery
pressure to 3.5 bar (50 lbf.in
2
). When the fuel delivery pressure exceeds 3.5 bar (50 lbf.in
2
), the regulator opens and
relieves excess pressure back to the swirl pot via a return pipe. The regulator ensures that the fuel rails and injectors
are supplied with a constant pressure.
The fuel pump delivery pressure and pressure regulator operating pressure can be checked using a Schraeder type
valve located at the rear of the engine on the fuel rail. The valve allows the pump delivery pressure to be measured
using a suitable gauge and an adaptor and hose which are special tools.
