Another Fuel Pump Leak On A Cummins

[Lug_Nut]

A Friend of mine with a 2000/1 DSDP has been watching his fuel pump since running the ultra diesel fuel. Today he started it and today it started leaking. Of course, being a 2000/1, he has no warranty and will have to flip the bill for the repair. Only question is, does it need a new pump complete or just the gasket that it is leaking from. Cummins replaces the entire unit. Could that be because they think there are other internal components that may fail later?

For all those with any year Cummins, keep an eye on the lift pump after using any ultra diesel. It seems to take a while but it has happened to far too many.

Peter

[Lug_Nut]

A Friend of mine with a 2000/1 DSDP has been watching his fuel pump since running the ultra diesel fuel. Today he started it and today it started leaking. Of course, being a 2000/1, he has no warranty and will have to flip the bill for the repair. Only question is, does it need a new pump complete or just the gasket that it is leaking from. Cummins replaces the entire unit. Could that be because they think there are other internal components that may fail later?

For all those with any year Cummins, keep an eye on the lift pump after using any ultra diesel. It seems to take a while but it has happened to far too many.

Peter

[footdoc]

When I called Cummins about that issue I was assured that the newer engines including mine, would not have that issue....hope so!

[Lug_Nut]

Larry I hope all new engines are upgraded for this new fuel. My '07 was not, delivery Aug. 30th, it leaked Oct. 8th about.

Peter

[smlranger]

Is this going to be unique to Cummins engines? How about CAT's of the same era?

Also, do any of the fuel additives (Power Service, Howes, etc.) mitigate the problem?

[Brigadoon]

Help me understand why they new fuel would contribute to a fuel pump leak.

[RVDude]

To summarize several previous forum postings from iRV2 and elsewhere...

A well documented "possible issue" once you start using ULSD **if you have previously been using the old/current LS fuels** is that there is a possibility that some fuel system gaskets and seals might "dry out" and seep as a result of the lower level of aromatics that are refined out in order to make ULSD.

These aromatics are the polluting sulphers/chemicals found in LS fuels that can be absorbed into soft materials causing them to expand slightly. Removing these aromatics from the fuel (as in ULSD) means the soft parts will eventually lose these aromatics they absorbed and might shrink ever so slightly – maybe even enough to seep.

It might be prudent to more frequently inspect your non-metal fuel system components (tank fittings, fuel pumps, non-metal hoses, hose clamps, gaskets) after making the fuel conversion just to make sure.

These links can further 'splain the potential problem.

More Info from Chevron

Cummins Early Warning Bulletin I do not know if there are updates to this bulletin.

A Cummins ULSD FAQ

[Gsetter]

I heard that CAT had changed the gasket material years ago and that they dont have the problem. Folks on other forums have discussed just replacing the gasket, but that info wasnt widely know at Cummins facilites. SOme research for the part number was in order. THe gasket is said to cost about $5. The new pump like $300.

It was also posted that an additive was working to keep the gasket material from drying out and shrinking.

I am currently researching buying a used DP and have seen info on this on several forums. I just need to find out if this problem exists on the cummins engine that is "non electronic". THe coach I am considering has a 325hp prior to ISC engine.

[footdoc]

I JUST called Cummins about the early warning memo of 2005..the rep said it's a very small uncommon issue for the current engines (06, etc) but could not give me any stats on failure rate since the usld is just getting common. Said it's covered by warranty..free for the first 2 yrs, then $100 deductible for the last 3...procedure is pump replacement, not just a gasket

[Gsetter]

There is a really good report by Cummins about this posted in the files section over on the Country COach Yahoo forum. It talks about the replacement of the pump or gasket, which engines are affected and the part numbers. The warrenty fix is a new pump, but for folks like me that would buy an older coach a new gasket would be a good option. I dont know how to copy that info here, or even if it is appropriate to do so. I lurk in alot of forums and have seen alot on this issue, so poke around and you will find some good info.

[Road Pilot]

Peter,

Can the lift pump be seen with the engine cover open (2007 Essex)? If so, which side? Can I just observe the ground periodically for fluid? Will my pad look like a Flying J?

[Lug_Nut]

The pump is easily visible on all side rad MH's. It is located on the passenger side of the engine about half way up over the starter. It is easily serviced from beneath the engine on the right. Takes about 20 minutes to remove and about the same to install.

Peter

[SX_RVing]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Road Pilot:
Peter,

Can the lift pump be seen with the engine cover open (2007 Essex)? If so, which side? Can I just observe the ground periodically for fluid? Will my pad look like a Flying J? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I Have the same question, except for a 2006 Essex.

I asked about this issue the last time I was at Coach Care. They told that the ISM doesn't have a lift pump?? That I must mean the fuel pump...When asked to point out where the fuel pump was, it became very apparent that they weren't sure. I don't think the tech I was speaking with had a clue.

So back to the same question as Road Pilot. Where is it located? What do you look for? Will it be obvious with fuel on the ground?

I've heard on other forums that the leaking occurs after a cold start-up, and stops after about 10 minutes...Is that accurate?

Thanks

[SX_RVing]

Sorry Peter....You posted while I was typing

SX_RVing