rpk55

Found that the fuel pump in my new to me BB was relocated to the front just under the fuel tank. I'm curious as to why this may have been done and I seem to remember reading that it's a popular thing to do.
Whoever did mine left what I would call just shy of a hack job. A picture is attached. It looks like power is coming from the rear just under the battery and through the tunnel. Poorly crimped ends and bare wires on both ends are an easy fix. But the plumbing is also pretty ugly too. Suggestions are appreciated

This is what I found after removing the panel underneath the tank.

Garyss

I was done to eliminate vapor lock very common problem. Later models were built this way .

rpk55

Thanks Gary: If anyone could send some pics of their pump installation I would appreciate them. This one is a mess, relies too much on zip ties.
Thanks

skl

Do a search at 914world- there is a ton of info on this there. I did it to both of my 914's as they are early enough to not have that done by the factory as the older cars were. And as noted, it was done for vapor lock issues due to engine heat.

bkrantz

As you probably know, the original pump location was under the engine shelf (directly below the battery). But too many people complained about heat-induced vapor lock. In 1975 (I think) Porsche/VW moved the pump to the front, under the gas tank on the left side, but within the tank compartment. Access (and pump mounting) was via a hatch in the frunk bulkhead. What you have is a common DIY re-location, but there should be a metal splash pan below the steering rack that would provide a bit of protection for that pump location.

Petza914

That's the right place, just poorly executed. The pump should be mounted using rubber isolating fuel pump mounts. The power source coming from the rear is actually correct as you extend the wires from the original fuel pump location to the new location, but the wiring should be done properly with heat shrink waterproof insulated connectors or soldering the wires with heat shrink insulation tubing over the solder joint. Make sure the fuel lines have gentle curves and no kinks - looks like they did OK on this part of it. Any line turns that are a bit sharper than look good, you can put an spring on the outside of the hose and the spring will maintain a smooth bend and prevent the hose from kinking.

rpk55

Thanks Petza for the reply. Now that I understand why the pump was moved I'll just try to clean up the install and fix the wiring issues. The car has a history of electrical issues which concern me.

bkrantz

One more thing about extending the wiring, especially the power lead: use thicker gauge wire for that long run. The ground can be done locally in the front.

rpk55

Will do. Think 16 gauge is OK? And do you think I'll be able to use the old wire to pull the new one through the tunnel?

bkrantz

Sorry for the delayed reply. I would use 14 gauge just to be certain. The stock wire is part of the harness, wrapped in tape and locally shrouded with vinyl tubing. I doubt you can pull the old wire.

rpk55

Thanks: The current wires are running through the tunnel. This has moved down my To Do list for the time being. Will most likely just tuck it back in now that the cars been cleaned.