9 steps for testing a snowmobile fuel pump

Discover the step-by-step process for testing your snowmobile's fuel pump, and ensure yourself the best ride possible.

A snowmobile can be used for fun, work, or just as a source of transportation. But as with any vehicle, you must perform maintenance to make sure it continues to function properly. One important part of a snowmobile that requires regular testing to ensure proper operation is the fuel pump. The fuel pump regulates the amount of fuel that is supplied to the engine from the tank, and helps control how smoothly your snowmobile runs.

1. Start by removing the body of the snowmobile in order to reveal the fuel pump, engine and carburetor. This can be done by lifting your engine cover or may require removing bolts.
2. Remove the tubing connecting the fuel tank to the fuel tank inlet on the fuel pump.
3. Attach the vacuum gauge to the fuel tank inlet.
4. Crank your engine.
5. Check the gauge to see if a vacuum is reported when the engine is cranked.
6. Remove the tubing connecting to the crankcase of the engine.
7. Make sure that there is a pulse in the hose.
8. Remove the line that attaches from the pump to the carburetor.
9. Attach the gauge to this line and ensure that there is pressure when the engine is cranked.

Note that if there’s no vacuum on the fuel intake end of the pump, then your fuel pump is defective. If there is a vacuum on the intake and a pulse in the crankcase, but no pressure to the carburetor line, then your fuel pump is also defective. If there is a vacuum on the fuel intake, pulse in the crankcase hose, and pressure on the carburetor line, check all of your tubing to ensure that there are no leaks or cracks.

If your fuel pump is malfunctioning, you can use a rebuild kit to repair it rather than buying a new fuel pump. Fuel pump repair kits typically cost anywhere from $5 to $20+.