Andair Fuel Pump Problem
 

Ok Gents, I am getting ready for the first engine start this weekend so I started by flushing the tanks tonight. After the right tank was flushed with 10 gallons, I disconnected the fuel line at the firewall and directed it into a fuel can, went inside and hit the fuel pump and all i hear is a high pitched wine from the pump, (doesn't sound like a fuel pump running). After about 4 seconds the fuel pump will shut it self off, according to the VPX when the pump is making the sound it draws 1.4 amps and then shuts itself off too 0 amps. The wiring is correct as it is only a red and black wire from the pump. Can anyone think of what this might be? something I am forgetting maybe? I have attached a video so you can hear what sound the pump is making.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giQ3_nV0DKQ


thanks

-david

I've heard these pumps can cavetate when there is air near the pump itself. I think someone sucked on the hose to pull the fuel through the pump (ick). Just don't swallow I imagine. Also, I noticed your fuel selector was on LEFT - is that intended? You may want to double check what the selector is on and which tank has the fuel in it.

Your right it was on left when I took the video, I had switched it over to see if there was a difference and there was not. Also I just went back out and sucked fuel through and there is no change. Still stumped.

-david

Did fuel come out when you sucked on it?

It doesn't sound like mine either - when mine is powered on there is a definite pumping noise, lower pitched sound. Perhaps Andair will have to answer what the issue is.

not right...
 

Mine draws a steady 6+ amps and makes a constant whirrrrrrr sound... try powering it directly bypassing the VP control. These pumps are self priming to 10 feet of head and will suck like crazy if it is working correctly.

I still have not found the culprit to the fuel pump however I did have to hurry and come up with a solution. This weekend I have my family flying in to help out with the Weight and balance, fuel tank calibration and first engine start and this fuel pump would prevent just about all of it. So a 2 minute phone call later and just about a thousand dollars and Aircraft spruce will deliver a new fuel pump to my house tomorrow.

Andair was not to helpful as this week is the paris air show so all but the receptionist are out, I am seriously hoping that when they return they will do a direct swap for a new pump which will soon be posted on the site for sale. So if your interested in a new Andair Fuel pump stay tuned and I might just have a deal for you.

Once again, the small things will hold you up, and cost you much more than they should.

-david

Same thing happened with my pump- I hooked up a hose and gave it a suck. As usual when I try syphoning I misjudged it and got a mouthful but it solved the problem. Pump flows over 50 gallons per hour.

does sound like it isnt picking up fuel. WOW.

Putting a hose on to suck fuel (prime) seems a bit like pushing your car rather than drive it. The whole point of that pump is that it's self priming....if it won't, then its malfunctioning.... isn't it?