Just starting to look around at EFI systems and a question about fuel tanks. It seems that a tank with a sump is SOP for these systems. I just ran across the MSD system, and it does not need a tank with a sump. Why?

John

Because their marketing department says it doesn't.

Just wanted to add this but it doesn't have anything to do with sumps,well it might if the tanks are equipped with them.Recently while searching on Rock Auto I found that the fuel tanks they offer have a EFI intank pump option for classic cars with elec fuel injection.
On some cars its easy to find but on some cars fuel tanks are harder to find, but if you go to related items you'll find it.
The tanks with the EFI option do cost more than the standard tanks but way less than a custom tank.

The MSD system uses a pulse pump to stop from over pressurizing the system.No return line or sump needed.A sump is not the right way to do an EFI system.

Just starting to look around at EFI systems and a question about fuel tanks. It seems that a tank with a sump is SOP for these systems. I just ran across the MSD system, and it does not need a tank with a sump. Why?

John

A sump is not the right way to do an EFI system.

School me...
John

I always thought the purpose of the sump is to keep the fuel pump pickup submerged in the gas.This eliminates or minimizes the chance that the pump will run dry.Most F/P's use gas to cool the pumps motor,so running them low or worse,dry is sure to cause some damage.
Also of all the late model fuel pumps that I've replaced I haven't seen one without a sump since the 80's cars haven't been the used cars of choice.

moved to B body gas tank install in 68-72 A body with pictures (http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=361176)

Ricks hot rod tank! Best thing going

I like the idea of a stock appearing tank with a pump immersed inside. In that case the Spectra Premium tanks are attractive. I have heard the new ones, the current production ones, have a baffle that helps keep the pump in the fuel during the various G-forces one typically sees when driving. You also need to avoid running with the tank too empty or you will have potential pickup problems. You may also run into fuel pump overheat situations if you run with too little fuel. The Spectra tanks are great for original appearance but are probably not the ticket for dragging though; a fuel cell or at least a pump pickup down below the floor of the tank is more effective. I also have questions about this sort of thing for my electric pump, non-EFI street project but I will need to start another thread so I don’t hijack this one.

The MSD system uses a pulse pump to stop from over pressurizing the system.No return line or sump needed.A sump is not the right way to do an EFI system.

biggest difference between carb'd and EFI is that on a carb you have the fuel bowls to cover up any fuel pickup issues. With EFI if the pump pulls any air the car immediately stumbles or dies.

The MSD system does not address this issue at all. You still need to make sure that the pump doesn't suck air. The Rock Valley and Spectre tanks for EFI work okay, but not at lower fuel levels and hard cornering. Keep your tank full and you're good to go. I've even used a stock tank without issues temporarily, just kept it full.

If you want the best setup the Vaporworx system is the ultimate. Filter and regulator included in the pump module so you don't have to buy those separately. Also no return line, and they will go down to the last gallon on a road course. They can be adapted to many tanks depending on depth.

http://vaporworx.com/

I've had issues with my Rick's Tank. Beautiful tank, but the tack welds holding the baffles came undone...I now have an annoying sound in my tank when I hit street bumps! The tank is beautiful, but I'm not impressed with the internal design and lack of support for correctly connecting the vent line without it burping gas all over the carport on a full tank.

So what do you guys say IS the way to go for a fuel tank?

I have a stock tank in my car. Big block chevy that should be around 500 horsepower after I redo the heads/cam here this spring.

I cant help it...im interested in trying one of these self learning fuel injetion setups, such as the msd or fast or what not.

not looking to blow big money on a tank. Could a fuel cell work?

Cant say for sure Im going to go the fuel injection route, but would like to know what im up against before considering it further.

Greg,

Look closely @ the MSD EFI. There are some neat vids on Youtube wherein Steve Magnante does a complete install.

HTH :thumbsup:

I'm running a sump in my tank, but I only have a 1.5" square hold cut in the main tank to feed the sump, so a "pocket" is created. Works good, maybe not as good at 1000.00+ tank, but well enough that I dont have any issues.

Yeah Id much prefer to not spend in the neighborhood of a grand on just the tank!

So Vinny, you sumped your stock tank?

Yeah Id much prefer to not spend in the neighborhood of a grand on just the tank!

So Vinny, you sumped your stock tank?

Yes, reverse mounted sump though, as this is the lowest part of the tank, plus I like the fact that the fuel lines and pump are in the front of the tank out of site.

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q116/VGIORDANO_2007/IMG_3139.jpg

doesnt the fuel tend to head back when you tend to get on the throttle though ?

doesnt the fuel tend to head back when you tend to get on the throttle though ?

Hence the "pocket" the sump creates - traps the fuel