Fuel Cavitation (Air in fuel)

Fuel Cavitation (Air in fuel)

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Racing Roj

Original Poster:

488 posts

163 months

Monday 14th July 2014
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On a 70 mile journey on Saturday I encountered fuel cavitation twice, something I had not had before. It seemed to be the high temperatures of the day that caused the fuel to overheat. I had to wait about 15 minutes before I could start the car and drive on. As far as I know the fuel system is standard factory supply and install. Having spoken to someone who has much experience with Ultimas he has suggested firstly insulating the swirl pot with DEI and then try it again. As the ambient temperatures are going to high over the next few weeks I will be able to do that. If this doesn't cure it he suggested lagging the braided hose fuel pipes. He also seemed to think that the device (not sure what it's called) with the fuel pressure gauge on could also be a problem due to its high mounting point in the engine bay. Has any one else had this problem and if so how did you cure it? Thanks.

Racing Roj

Original Poster:

488 posts

163 months

Wednesday 16th July 2014
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Thanks Guys for your input. I have been away for a few days so have only just read the posts. I would answer the points raised as follows: -
1. My knowledge of the fuel system is at the moment minimal but I gave been advised that it is a standard factory system.
2. When the problem surfaced it was on the public roads and definitely not at full throttle in fact very little throttle.
3. There was problem happened at least 30 miles between each event.
4. The ambient temperature was about 23c.
As you can see there has been some conflicting advice so I am a little confused.
I think I will try and insulate at least the swirl pot and check that the pipe work and fittings aren't causing a pressure loss and adding to the problem.

Racing Roj

Original Poster:

488 posts

163 months

Friday 18th July 2014
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Thanks Jonny
I will check the different parts of the system but I need to find where they first.
What's an IR?

Racing Roj

Original Poster:

488 posts

163 months

Friday 18th July 2014
quotequote all
Thanks guys, I have still got one from my racing days so will check with that.

Racing Roj

Original Poster:

488 posts

163 months

Sunday 20th July 2014
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Mark
The reason I suspect air in the fuel is as follows: -
1. Only occurred on a very hot day so possible fuel boiling.
2. I heard a noise prior to the the car cutting out which sounded like a fuel pump pumping air.
2. The car did not cut out immediately but took about a mile or so.
4. After the car cooled down for about 15 minutes it started again with no problem.
The factory also advised me to check the fuel filters before I so anything else but haven't had time yet. I did have the filters checked only 3 weeks ago during a service so unless there is some dirt in the fuel thus may not be the problem.
When I gave drawn out the fuel system, checked the filters and tried one or two other suggestions I will post an update.
Roj