First Start and Fuel pump warning

[Straversi]

First Start Video:

https://youtu.be/qS-F0_0Byfc

This was the first "recorded start" but by no means the first attempt. I had many self inflicted problems delaying my first start that I documented in my build thread.

The one problem that might interest everyone and that caused the most head scratching is that my FFR in tank fuel pump failed. The clamp that holds the rubber tube to the steel pick-up tube popped off. You can't tighten it. Once that rubber tube was wet with fuel it slipped right off. I replaced mine with a stainless band clamp and everything worked fine. Not sure if I want to replace the entire pump at this point, before I get everything buttoned up. For now it works.

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-Steve

[PeteH]

Steve,
Congrats! looks and sounds great! Thanks for the heads up on the hose issue, will put it in my archives for reference.

[Straversi]

Quick correction. FFR did not supply the fuel pump. I got it with my engine package from one of our suppliers.
Apologies to FFR. Apparently I lost a few brain cells inhaling gas fumes during the repair.

-Steve

[scottiec]

Congrats man! Looks fantastic.

[Straversi]

Congrats man! Looks fantastic.

Thanks. Big relief to finally get it fired up.
-Steve

[rich grsc]

You tighten those clamps with a side cutter in the notch, just give them as squeeze. I've used them with no issues.

[brewha]

I've been go-carting for about 2 weeks now and I had a breakdown about a half mile from home ( of course with no license and no cell phone). I managed to get the car into a friend's driveway and try to diagnose the issue which seemed to be a lack of fuel. This is a Fitech FI car and could see the pressure was not good. Prior to this happening during prestart it sound like gurgling as the pump preset the pressure. We'll I had to be tow strapped home.....how embarrassing that was as I did the parade wave to everyone on the street.
I traced back through the fuel lines and guess what I found......
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I guess what you found was more common then one would think.
Thanks for doing the leg work and bringing it to the forum.

I replaced all the clamps with a more pressure resistant clamp.

[mia65cobra]

Congrats...sounds awesome!

[Straversi]

Thanks for the kind words on the first start. Such a great feeling when it comes to life. Can't wait to go-kart so I can actually think of it as a car and not just a big model.

Regarding the fuel pump issue, Brewha, sorry you had to go through that. Hopefully, my problems helped you diagnose your situation faster and maybe your story helps someone else check their fuel pump before they install it. Shared experiences (the good, the bad and the ugly) make us all a little smarter.

-Steve