Hello to all, new member and new Volvo owner I just replaced both fuel pumps on the '88 240 wagon i recently purchased (in-tank pump was dead) and the new pumps are both extremely noisy. The new main pump has a low hum to it, nothing too bad, but the new in-tank pump makes a constant whining noise that's very annoying. Both pumps are Airtex and seem to be functioning well, just the sound is kinda getting on my nerves. Is this common with Airtex pumps, or should I be worried that they might burn out?

 

I have the same issue with my 89 740. I did notice that I used the rubber connector instead of buying the bellows type that is OEM. Maybe that would cut down some of the noise. Otherwise I'll try to insulate the top of the gas tank.

 

My Airtex pump (in-tank) I got is louder than I remember the old one, but I think that's what I get for cheap-balling my car for an Autozone pump. It didn't even have the right connectors. Mine is not unbearable. Just more noticeable when I'm sitting the the car alone letting it idle.

 

I have a bosch "main" ( is that what it's called?) and an airtex intank, and there's no noise.

i assume you did the fuel filters too.


to answer your question, no the pumps shouldn't be excessively noiesy. I drive in a bunch of volvos and you never even notice it unless your really paying attention and everythings off. I get into cars to diag. and most of the time you can even hear them prime.

 

my 745T's main pump was really noisy when my tank pump was dead. car ran fine in spite of that, hah. new tank pump and its totally silent, can't hear either of them inside or outside the car.

 

Master/AirTex pumps are often a bit noisier than o.e. It's nearly impossible today to buy fuel pumps as well made as the ones that came on your car 20 years ago. Bosch fuel pumps aren't made in Germany anymore; the high performance ones are made in the Czech Republic, lesser ones made wherever. Compounding the issue is China is building counterfeit Bosch fuel pumps that are difficult to discern. To reduce intank pump noise, make certain the pump is not touching the base of the fuel level sender. Installed properly, it should only touch the white plastic collar and the rubber connector to the output tube. If it isn't resting against metal, it would have to be extremely noisy to be heard. Similarly, the main pump should be securely attached to the pump/filter tray and the tray isolated by the three rubber isolators. It's always good practice to run the pump prior to installation. Stoddard solvent is best, but who has that! I run Safeti-Kleen through mine at work but a coffee can of gasoline works well too...just attach a fuel hose to the output end and loop it back into the can. My day is much improved when I find a d.o.a. pump (or excessively noisy) prior to installation!