For Duramax-powered pickup enthusiasts, performance and reliability are paramount. One of the key components that can significantly enhance these attributes is a lift pump. Upgrading your Duramax with a lift pump can lead to improved fuel efficiency, better engine performance, and longer fuel system lifespan. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of upgrading with a lift pump, ensuring you get the most out of your Duramax engine and get the best lift pump available for your truck.
Upgrading Your Duramax With A Lift Pump
A lift pump plays a crucial role in a fuel system. For the Duramax engine, it is a new addition. The 6.6L Duramax engines did not come from the factory with a lift pump. The delivery process of fuel from the tank to the engine was all done by suction from the injection pump. Upgrading and installing a lift pump removes a lot of stress the injection pump typically sees.
This pump is responsible for transferring fuel from the tank to the injection pump, ensuring a steady and reliable flow of fuel. This goes inline between the tank and the engine’s fuel injection system and serves as a transfer pump and a filtration system. Not only are you allowing your fuel system to get adequate pressure, but you’re also getting it pre-cleaned before going into the rest of the fuel system.
Ensuring a clean, steady supply of fuel to the high-pressure injection pump helps maintain optimal engine performance. Upgrading your lift pump can provide numerous benefits, making it a worthy investment for any Duramax owner.
What Does a Lift Pump Do on a Duramax?
A lift pump draws fuel from the tank and delivers it to the high-pressure injection pump. This process ensures that the engine receives a consistent and adequate supply of fuel, which is essential for efficient combustion and performance. In a Duramax engine, the lift pump supports the overall fuel system, contributing to smoother engine operation and better fuel efficiency.
Benefits of Upgrading a Duramax with a Lift Pump
Upgrading your Duramax with a lift pump offers several significant benefits that can transform your truck’s performance and longevity. One of the primary advantages is improved fuel efficiency. A high-quality lift pump enhances fuel delivery, ensuring that the engine receives a steady and adequate fuel supply. This optimized fuel flow reduces the strain on the engine, allowing it to operate more efficiently and consume less fuel. As a result, you can expect better mileage and overall fuel economy, which is particularly beneficial for those who use their trucks for heavy-duty tasks or long-distance driving.
Another critical benefit of upgrading to a reliable lift pump is enhancing engine performance. Consistent and efficient fuel delivery is crucial for the engine to perform at its best. A high-quality lift pump ensures that there is no interruption or fluctuation in the fuel supply, which translates to better throttle response and smoother acceleration. This improved performance can make a noticeable difference, especially when towing heavy loads or driving in challenging conditions. By maintaining optimal fuel pressure and flow, the engine can deliver its full power potential, providing a more robust and responsive driving experience.
Additionally, upgrading to a superior lift pump can significantly increase the longevity of your truck’s fuel system. The consistent and efficient fuel delivery provided by a high-quality lift pump reduces the wear and tear on the fuel injectors, fuel lines, and other fuel system components. This not only helps in maintaining the performance and efficiency of these components but also prevents potential breakdowns and costly repairs. By investing in a reliable lift pump, you can extend the lifespan of your fuel system, ensuring that your truck remains in excellent working condition for years to come. This long-term reliability is a key factor for any Duramax owner looking to get the most out of it.
Choosing the Best Lift Pump for Duramax Performance
When selecting a lift pump for your Duramax, consider factors such as brand reputation, pump capacity, compatibility with your truck model, and durability. Depending on what modifications have been performed on the truck, what you do with the truck, and what you expect out of the fuel system are questions that need answering.
Although one could purchase an overboard setup and never have to worry about fuel delivery issues, one would have to start considering a budget. We are here to help you make the best decision and get the best bang for your buck. From mild to wild, there is a lift pump option out there for you.
FASS Lift Pump: A Top Choice for Duramax
One of the top lift pump options for a Duramax engine is often considered to be the FASS Titanium Signature Series. Coming in at ratings from 100 gallons per hour all the way to 290 gallons per hour. This provides ample fuel for multiple system upgrades and high-performance needs. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the FASS Titanium Signature Series ensures long-term reliability and peace of mind for truck owners.
This lift pump offers advanced filtration with a 2-micron rating, protecting the injection system and injectors from contaminants. It includes a built-in water separation filter that removes water from the fuel, preventing damage to the engine components. Additionally, its patented air/vapor removal process eliminates air and vapor from the fuel, improving efficiency and performance. Designed to address fuel-related issues that can cause injector failure, the FASS system extends the life of the injection system.
With less than a 2% failure rate due to meticulous engineering and quality control, the FASS Titanium Signature Series is known for superior engineering and attention to detail, setting it apart from competitors. This diesel fuel system is highly regarded for its exceptional quality, advanced features, and robust support it provides to the Duramax engine, making it a top choice among truck owners and enthusiasts.
Other Popular Lift Pump Brands for Duramax
In addition to FASS, other reputable brands offer high-quality lift pumps for Duramax engines. Brands like AirDog, Fleece Performance Engineering, and BD Diesel are known for their reliable products that cater to various performance needs and preferences.
In addition to brand reputation, it is crucial to consider the pump’s capacity. The capacity of the lift pump should match the demands of your truck’s fuel system to ensure optimal performance. A pump with insufficient capacity may struggle to provide the necessary fuel flow, leading to performance issues, while a pump with excessive capacity might be unnecessary and more expensive.
AirDog is known for producing reliable and efficient lift pumps that cater to a variety of performance needs, too. Their AirDog II-5G is a premium fuel pump and filtration system designed for Duramax diesels from 2001-2016. It effectively removes water, particulates, and entrained air from the diesel fuel, returning separated air to the tank. This system delivers fuel at the correct pressure and flow rate under all operating conditions.
The AirDog II-5G comes in many different volumes (100/165/220 gph) and features a built-in adjustable diaphragm pressure regulator and includes a complete installation kit. Preset at 8-10 psi for stock applications, the regulator can be adjusted up to 55 psi, allowing for fine-tuning to match current and future performance upgrades.
The pumps are designed to improve fuel flow and filtration, ensuring that your engine receives clean and consistent fuel. BD Diesel is another respected brand, offering lift pumps built for durability and high performance. Their Venom lift pump offers a drop-in solution with ultra-quiet ball-bearing technology, improved pressure regulation, and efficiency to support its 900hp Stroker pumps.
Rated at 165gph, it can support a single large CP3 or dual-fuel kits with stock high-pressure Fuel Pumps (HPFP). A rigid aluminum bracket with quiet vibration isolators ensures versatile and easy installation without the need for strap mounting to the electric motor as in previous models. The kit includes a 3-micron fuel filter, a 20-micron water separator filter, and everything needed for installation using full-size 1/2-inch fuel lines.
The Venom Lift Pump features a 1-1/8-inch diaphragm-based fuel pressure regulation preset at 8-10 psi and an updated pump mounting bracket. It supports applications ranging from stock to 900hp and has a hard coat billet pump body made of military-grade materials. The ultra-compact design includes quick-connect fittings, eliminating the need for cutting. Replacement filters are equivalent to Donaldson P551315 for the fuel filter and Donaldson P550550 for the water separator filter making maintenance easy.
There is also another option that allows you to outfit your Duramax with a lift pump without any modifications at all. Fleece Performance offers their SureFlo system which is a complete sending unit kit that drops into the factory location inside the tank. When using an aftermarket pump mounted externally to the fuel tank, you need to install a draw straw or drill your fuel tank to accommodate a sump. If a draw straw is cut too short, you could run into the ¼ tank issues that lead to pump cavitation when air is drawn into the fuel system.
SureFlo performance sending units are designed to work with aftermarket lift pumps and fit directly into your stock sending unit location. They feature factory-style quick disconnects to adapt your stock fuel lines at the tank, ensuring a clean installation without cutting or drilling the tank. SureFlo draws and returns fuel to the bucket assembly at the base of the unit, preventing air from entering the fuel system and eliminating the ¼ tank problem. The SureFlo bucket also includes one-way check valves to allow fuel flow at lower levels.
By considering factors such as brand reputation, pump capacity, compatibility, and durability, you can make an informed decision when selecting a lift pump for your Duramax. Whether you choose a FASS lift pump or one from other reputable brands like AirDog or BD Diesel Performance, upgrading your lift pump can significantly enhance your Duramax’s performance and reliability.
Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading Your Duramax Lift Pump
Tools and Preparation
- Basic hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers)
- Lift pump kit
- Safety equipment (gloves, safety glasses)
- Fuel Line Disconnect Tool
Installation Instructions & Tips
Installing a lift pump on a Duramax involves several detailed steps to ensure proper functionality and longevity. Begin by disconnecting the fuel lines, being cautious to relieve fuel pressure beforehand. Fuel line disconnect tools are very common and easy to get at a parts store if you don’t have them already. Some installers opt to remove the truck bed for easier access to the fuel tank and lines. This step, while labor-intensive, can significantly simplify the installation process. By being able to see the fuel tank, you’re removing the overhead work and offering your workspace with more light.
There are various options for fuel pickup: you can use a fuel tank sump where a gravity-fed line through the bottom of the tank feeds the lift pump, or a draw straw (pickup tube) which draws fuel vertically out of the tank through the original style sending unit. Be mindful that the draw straw measurement needs to be perfect or you could run into ¼ tank issues. As the tank gets low on fuel, the pump could suck in air causing issues.
Or, the Fleece SureFlo option allows you to bypass each of these methods. Each provides a different advantage depending on your setup and budget.
For the return line, you have several options for routing. One common method is to utilize the existing factory return line by teeing into it, maintaining the stock appearance and function. Another option is using a dedicated return port, included in some aftermarket lift pump kits, providing a more direct return path and reducing potential pressure build-up.
You can also route the return line to the fuel tank filler neck, which requires a fitting allowing return fuel to flow back through the refueling opening. If using a fuel tank sump for the lift pump pickup, some sump designs include a return port, simplifying the routing process by keeping both the pickup and return lines in the same area.
For the electrical connections, it is important to energize the lift pump to a key-on power source. This ensures the pump operates only when the ignition is on, preventing unnecessary battery drain. Double-check all connections to ensure they are secure and properly insulated to prevent electrical issues.
Each truck, each setup, and each pump are going to be different but the objective remains the same. Safely secure a pump to the truck and make leak-free connections to ensure the best performance possible.
Functionality Test
After installing a lift pump on your Duramax, ensure smooth operation and longevity by meticulously checking all connections and fittings for leaks, addressing any issues promptly to maintain fuel system safety. Monitor fuel pressure using a gauge to ensure it stays within the recommended range, adjusting as necessary according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Secure and properly insulate all electrical connections to prevent potential issues affecting the pump’s operation and your vehicle’s performance. Address excessive noise or vibration by checking the mounting and vibration isolators.
Take your vehicle for a test drive to evaluate the lift pump’s performance under normal driving conditions, paying attention to throttle response and overall engine performance. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, which includes periodic inspections, filter changes, and other necessary tasks to keep your lift pump and fuel system in top condition.
Common FAQs About Duramax Lift Pumps
Do I Need a Lift Pump on My Duramax Truck?
While Duramax trucks do not come with a lift pump from the factory, installing one can significantly improve fuel delivery and overall engine performance.
Where To Put A Lift Pump on a Duramax Truck?
Where you mount the lift pump is up to the installer. However, it is most common to have it mounted near the tank and on the frame rail. This is the most streamline spot for a system like this to go as it is up and out of the way from debris and is a straightway path to the engine from the tank.
Enhancing Your Duramax with the Right Lift Pump
Upgrading your Duramax lift pump is a smart investment that can lead to better performance, improved fuel efficiency, and increased longevity of your truck’s fuel system. By choosing a high-quality lift pump and following the proper installation steps, you can ensure your Duramax operates at its best. Explore the selection of lift pumps available on Diesel Power Products and take the first step towards enhancing your truck’s performance today.