Here’s a scenario we’re certain that too many of you Ford owners have experienced. You found out how unreliable the factory fuel system is on your ’94 through’97 7.3-liter Power Stroke. It’s either left sit along the side of the road or in your driveway. Regardless of where you unintentionally parked, Strictly Diesel has a remedy you can install. Check out the Driven Diesel’s Electric Fuel System Conversion.
This fuel system conversion is great for not only stock trucks, but if later on, you decide to install larger injectors, your fuel system will be ready to supply them. Some enthusiasts upgrade to larger injectors before upgrading the fuel pump, and unfortunately, larger injectors are more than what a single Bosch fuel pump will support. In the past, you would have to install a larger fuel pump or a higher volume lift pump system. However, that has changed.
After enough requests for a higher volume pump, Dennis Schroeder, co-owner of Strictly Diesel, decided to widen their offerings. The design’s goal was to supply injectors with enough fuel to function properly while maintaining ultimate reliability. Mission accomplished.
Overall, the kit is a straightforward installation and includes all of the necessary fittings, clamps, hose, filter with increased flow rating, wiring, and of course a secondary pump. Once installed, both pumps will run simultaneously, supplying enough fuel to operate up to a 250 cc injector. There are two versions of the kit. One is sold with hardware for those wanting to install a fuel tank sump. The sump is not included with this kit, which allows you to run a sump of your choice. The other version includes a 5/8-inch draw straw. Both kits work well and it comes down to personal preference.
We asked Dennis why he opted to use dual pumps. He states, “The Bosch fuel pump is extremely reliable and we have seen it operating on trucks with well over 200,000 miles. Since this upgrade utilizes an OE pump, it is rated for diesel unlike some others commonly being used. Also, if one of the pumps should quit you can still get home or to an auto parts store to purchase a new one.”
We also asked if any other modifications are needed to run dual pumps. Dennis states, “trucks that still use the factory selector valve will need to completely bypass it because it’s too restrictive. Ideally, they would want to supply the engine with fuel from the front tank as it offers adequate clearance above the tank for the 5/8-inch pickup, and has a smoother bottom surface for the sump to seal against.”
We know the fuel tanks under the OBS trucks aren’t very large, so here are some choices to consider. You could install an in-bed fuel tank to feed the front tank, a transfer pump to move fuel from the rear to the front one, or a larger single fuel tank. As you can see you have plenty of options depending on preference and budget.
One last thing to consider, as with most things in life, there are pros and cons, this is no different.
Pros: Simple to install, increased reliability, and you can’t have too much of a good thing.
Cons: With a reliable fuel system supplying enough fuel to produce just north of 500 horsepower, we know you’ll be buying rear tires more frequently.
For owners of ’99-’03 Power Stroke owners with a 7.3-liter engine currently running Drive Diesel’s pre/post, fuel filter system, stay tuned. They will have this conversion kit available for you as well.