Sunday, December 1, 2013
Parts of a Fuel System
An automobile wouldnt get very far without a fuel system. Each fuel system component performs a specific function in the retaining, filtering and moving of fuel from its storage compartment all the way into the engine block. The system ensures that the fuel reaches the engine as free of harmful particles as possible, creating optimal conditions for combustion and performance.
Fuel Tank
As the name would indicate, a fuel tank is a container that stores a vehicles fuel. Fuel tanks have a filler tube with an opening on the side of the vehicle for adding fuel to the tank. The tank also has an electronic "trigger" that relays information to the gas gauge regarding the amount of fuel in the tank.
Fuel Pump
Modern automobiles have a fuel pump attached directly to or inside the fuel tank. Older vehicles generally have one attached to the engine. Pumps mounted near the fuel tank use electricity to pull fuel from the tank toward the engine. Automobiles with fuel pumps attached near the engine use gravity to pull fuel into the engine.
Fuel Filter
Fuel filters are critical for optimal performance and long engine life. These components are usually installed at both ends of the fuel pump to filter particles that would otherwise inhibit combustion and clog engine components. Regular inspection of fuel filters is necessary to keep a fuel system performing at a high level.
Fuel Injectors
Fuel systems built after 1986 have fuel injectors. These electronic valves open and close to send a computer-controlled mixture of air and fuel into the engine block. This speeds up the combustion process, allows for faster engine response during acceleration, improves fuel economy and lowers vehicle emissions. Fuel injectors depend greatly on properly functioning fuel filters to maintain peak performance levels.
Carburetors
A carburetor is the predecessor of fuel injection. This component uses gravity to create the appropriate mixture of air and fuel before sending it into the engine block. The device is relatively simple in construction but requires frequent maintenance and is less efficient than fuel injection.
