CORROSION - FUEL PUMP

[Lance Haslewood <lanceh@xxxx>]

 From time-to-time I notice comments arising on the DML in reference to 
fuel pump corrosion. Some time ago, I had the same problem. In fact, the 
pump was so corroded that fuel was squirting out through a hole in the top 
of the pump. On investigating, I found the rubber boot full of a mixture 
of both fuel and water; the water having gained access because the boot 
cover had come loose and a portion of the pump was exposed. Considering 
the seclusion of the fuel pump, I could not understand how the water got 
there in the first place.

Upon investigation, I discovered that water from the windshield wiper 
trough exits via a one inch diameter pipe which is located high on the rear 
wall of the trunk practically in line with the fuel pump. If enough water 
enters the wiper trough, such as when washing the vehicle, it will stream 
directly on top of the fuel pump. This I know, because I have tried it!!.

To protect the fuel pump from water, I have made a deflection shield out of 
Herculite fabric. Herculite is a fibreglass reinforced fabric which is 
extremely durable, completely waterproof and long-lasting. The shield, 
which is held in place by the wheel-well panel, is large enough to 
completely deflect water completely away from the pump.

This modification is a very simple and worthwhile process. Attached are 
pictures of the fuel pump area, drain hole and shield.

In my opinion, protection of the fuel pump and probe from water is far from 
satisfactory and a definite flaw in the manufacture of the DeLorean.

Lance Haslewood
Australia 

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