D 200 Fuel System Question

[brandonozz 168]

Due to the elevation of the fuel pump in relation to the fuel tank, do you need to keep the fuel tank half full or more to keep from running out of fuel?  Have any of you D owners ran out of fuel when the tank still had fuel in it?

My fuel pump is mounted on the top of the Kohler at the rear of the engine near the battery.  Has anyone lowered the fuel pump to prevent loosing prime?

 

Thanks for your experience,

Brandon

 

[slufoot733 70]

Never had a problem as long as the fuel pump itself is functioning properly. I have a 1978 D-200 and the fuel pump finally did fail. I purchased a new vacu-pulse fuel pump and it works fine. I never have a fuel problem. The pump draws the fuel to the carb with no issues. Keep the pump close to the vacuum source for best operation.

Edited November 15, 2013 by slufoot733

[tommyg 154]

Check your lines for loose connections or leaks. If you're sucking in air, you're gonna leave fuel in the tank.

[brandonozz 168]

I have only had the 200 running for about 4 months but I never had a problem before.  I replaced all the fuel hoses and filter and cleaned the carburetor as this tractor had sat for 5 years before I picked it up.  I see no fuel leaks anywhere. 

I was running the D a few days ago and went up a small hill and when I got the top the tractor cut out and started running rough.  I shut it down as it acted like it was starving for fuel and I checked the tank and it was about 40% full.  I added a couple more gallons and put her back in the garage.

Yesterday I started her up and after a minute or two I tried to open the choke back up and it tried to die so I re-applied choke and it ran fine for a minute more before it finally died and wouldn't restart.  I guess the most likely culprit is the fuel pump is shot. 

 Just curious if anyone has ever had a similar experience.

 

 Slufoot773 - Where did you get your pump? What model? Looks NLA at Toro.

 

 

 

Thanks, Brandon

Edited November 15, 2013 by brandonozz

[Marv 982]

Since the tractor sat for 5 years before you got it, there may be rust build up in the tank. Over time while running  enough of the rust attached itself to the screen on the tank shut off valve to finally restrict flow enough to starve the pump. After sitting a while just enough fuel to get the engine running was allowed to pass through the screen then suction again plugged the screen.

Marvin

[brandonozz 168]

Since the tractor sat for 5 years before you got it, there may be rust build up in the tank. Over time while running  enough of the rust attached itself to the screen on the tank shut off valve to finally restrict flow enough to starve the pump. After sitting a while just enough fuel to get the engine running was allowed to pass through the screen then suction again plugged the screen.

Marvin

The fuel tank was dirty inside but not terrible.  I cleaned the inside of the tank and replaced the fuel shutoff valve with a new valve as the screen on the old one gone.  I've read that the fuel pumps tend to loose their worth after sitting dry for many years.  I guess I need to remove the hose from the carb and see how its pumping just to make sure. 

[Marv 982]

Install an electric fuel pump.

Marvin

[slufoot733 70]

Brandonozz, any local lawn & garden service shop should have them. Cost me about $30 five years ago. Or check online. They're all over eBay: Stens offers them. Part numbers vary by engin maker:

B&S: #808656 KAW: #49040-7001 KOH: #249393. These pimps have three hose connections: fuel in, fuel out and a vacuum line. They work very well.

 

The electric pump is a good option also. Don't know which one, never pursued that avenue.

Edited November 19, 2013 by slufoot733

[Marv 982]

The electric I use is a Facet model FEP04SV. I have them on three tractors and they work very well.

Marvin