LOUD tapping noise from fuel pump

[Guest]

Just got done with replacing thermostat and other associated parts. But this really started before then, it was not nearly as loud, but now it's annoying, and she now seems to be running rough.

BTW, from what I can tell from the Clymer manual (easy now!) it's the fuel pump; it is the Chrome cannister on the top of the right side of the engine, eh? Two hoses go to it.

Now, this may have started when I emptied that little black bottle that collects condensation (sorry, don't have the book in front of me now, but you know what I mean).

Help!

[Guest]

Time for a fuel pump, Bob. There's nothing you could have done as far as your little black bottle thingey that would have caused this.
Before you replace the fuel pump, though, when was the last time you changed the fuel filter? You might try that first. Either way, always flush your fuel lines and replace the fuel filter BEFORE you install a new pump.

[Guest]

(SIGH)
Thanks a lot (sincerely)! This is better than a valve problem! I will replace the filter. Now this begs the question: Where to get the fuel pump at a decent price? Ebay? Anyone got a 'gently used' one out there?

Please advise.

[Ed Z]

One test I would do prior to getting a new fuel pump is to first change the filter (as mentioned above) and secondly run the bike without the pump running to verify it's the pump...
To run the bike without the pump, first start the bike and run it to verify the noise is present (and to insure the carb float bowls are filled)... Turn off the bike and remove the fuse for the pump (or unplug the wires)... Start the bike and verify the noise remains (bike will run for a while without the pump filling the bowls)... If the noise is gone then it's likely time for the replacement pump... If the noise remains, then you just saved money and now know it's something else...

[Keener]

Check with Andy at <!-- w --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.straightwings.com">http://www.straightwings.com</a><!-- w --> He had a good used fuel pump last week when I checked for our 'Wing. A new one from Mother Honda is $172.72 Cdn. There went my last pension cheque! HondaDirect wanted $116.75 US.

[Guest]

Good advice! I replaced the fuel filter (got the fancy glass one, even though you can't view it very well), and the knock went away! Thanks guys!

[Guest]

the knock your hearing gents is the sound an electric fuel pump makes when its not getting enough fuel.... like for example your fuel petcock was turned off....if its ticking then your not getting fuel. If your getting fuel it should not tick... at least not noticeably ... good luck.....

capn