The fuel pump may seem like a small or insignificant equipment component, but it’s just as essential to the success of your operation as an engine or control system. You’re unlikely to try to run a piece of construction equipment without fuel, right? That’s where the fuel pump comes in. This is the solution that supplies energy to the engine.

Whether you’re using a compact construction machine or a high-performance piece of equipment for heavy applications, the fuel pump is one of the most important components. If you want to troubleshoot a fuel pump or you’re interested in learning more about your machinery, here’s a brief overview of how fuel pumps work in heavy equipment.

A fuel pump’s job is fairly easy to remember. When you refill a machine with fuel, the pump sends it directly into the fuel tank, where it’s stored until you turn on the machine. The fuel pump then sends the fuel or oil into the fuel injection system and combustion chambers so that the machine can start up properly.

A working pump is a valuable tool that your compact equipment needs to operate at its best. If your machinery has a faulty pump, it could cause any number of issues, such as:

• Poor fuel consumption
• Loss of power
• Decreased fuel pressure
• Stalling

A serious fuel pump issue could even cause your construction equipment to stop working completely. That’s why it’s important to make sure your pump is properly cared for and maintained. Your machinery needs it to deliver the smooth performance necessary for your applications.

Compact construction equipment fuel pumps are made up of a few different parts. First, the system includes the pump itself, which is responsible for moving the fuel to the storage tank and the injection system. The electric fuel pump works with the help of an automatic pump relay and pressure regulator, which allow the machine to start up and maintain consistent levels of efficiency.

The pump also consists of a filter that’s used to remove contaminants from the fluid before it reaches the engine. This is one of the most critical parts of the system, as contaminated fuel can impact performance and longevity. The electric system sends information to the machine’s gauges so the operator can see the fuel level.

If you know how fuel pumps work, it’s easy to see how they can affect the performance and power of your compact machinery. Every piece of equipment that runs on fuel or oil needs one of these vital components to stay in shape on a job site.

While the location of your fuel pump varies depending on the equipment you own, an experienced technician can determine whether it’s time to replace your fuel pump. Contact your local dealer today for assistance with your Cat® construction equipment.