I have an '89 F150 with dual tanks. When using the front fuel tank (for several minutes/miles) engine dies from apparent fuel stavation. Switching to rear tank solves problem. I can switch back to front tank, truck runs until what appears to be out of fuel. Suggestions?

Also, out of the blue, when swithched to rear fuel tank, gauge registers empty (yes I do have fuel in the tank). ???

And last ( for now) when A/c is on there is a fuel/oil type smell in cab of truck but only when engine is running and not moving. Suggestions?

THANKS!

 

Sounds as if the pump is dying, had the same problem with my F-350, also most likely you have corrosion on your harness on the rear tank, if not the harness then the float most likely has a hole in it and no longer floats, Ive seen this happen on a buddies truck, he would go long periods of time with no fuel in the rear tank, as a result the float rubbed on the bottom of the tank till it wore through.

 

I would find away to test the tank selector valve. Also it could be possible that the booster pump in the front tank is bad. If the valve is ok and you have power to the front pump I would replace the pump. For the smell I would look for oil or fuel leaks that might find there way into the intake vent for the heater which is up by the wipers.

 

Frankenstien,

Thanks. I droped the front tank and removed the pump/float mechanism. There was in fact corrosion in the underside of the housing. The rest of the components "looked" ok, but I'm thinking the corrosion is causing a short somehow since the pump does work, but stops only when the truck has been running...no problem starting when using front fuel tank.

I've kept fuel in the rear tank but the hole in the float sounds logical. The truck set for a few years in storage.

I have to dig out my records...one of these fuel pumps is virtually new.

thanks again

mv

 

Nitro94,

Yes the puump is getting power. I was afraid you would say replace pump. This is not the first time and its starting to get expensive.

thanks

mv