Performance Fuel System Car Parts & Accessories

What is a Fuel System?

The fuel system of a vehicle stores and supplies fuel to the engine of the car. These systems have evolved significantly over the years. In the 21st century, the systems of automobiles have been made electric, and manufacturers have been producing cars that use fuel more efficiently. There are several components of these systems, and each of these parts plays a role in the storing and supplying of fuel to the engine. It is important to maintain the different parts well since a small problem can easily result in major issues with your entire system.

Fuel System Components

The system is made up of fuel injectors, fuel tank, pump and filters. The fuel used in the car should be clean, free from water, dust and any foreign particles for the efficient performance of the car. Here is a detailed analysis of how each of the above components works.

– Fuel injectors

The injectors act as gates to release just the right amount of fuel to the engine before a car starts. Fuel injectors mix vaporised fuel with air to produce a combustible combination for the engine. The right size of fuel injector should be used to avoid ruining the car engine. Fuel injectors can either be high or low impedance. Impedance is the amount of electrical resistance of the coil that drives the injector. A low impedance injector will have a resistance of 1-5 ohms while a high impedance injector will have a resistance of 10-16 ohms. The feed style and configuration of a vehicle should also be considered when determining the right fuel injector. The length and diameter of injectors should also be checked before purchase. The length ranges from 40 mm to 65 mm while the diameter of the top o-ring is either 11 mm or 14 mm. Injectors can also be side feed variants hence it is important to choose injectors that are compatible with one’s engine. With the recent car models, it is possible to fit larger injectors to the cars without compromising quality, smoothness or the performance of the car. When one is unsure of which type of injectors to use on a vehicle, your car tuner can help tell the perfect fit.

– Intake valve

The valve opens and allows the mixture of fuel and air to enter the combustion chamber.

– Combustion chamber

This is the furnace of a vehicle where all the burning of fuel and air takes place.

– Fuel pumps

These feed the fuel from the tank to the fuel injection system. Fuel pumps can either be electric or mechanical.

– Fuel tank

The tank acts as a reservoir for the fuel. It is connected to a filler tube through which fuel is taken into the tank. The reservoir is closed by a cap. There are fuel lines connected to the tank that allow fuel to flow into the engine.

– Fuel swirl pots

The swirl pots are connected to engines and ensure the flow of fuel when you brake abruptly or make a sharp corner. This ensures that the fuel pump and engine do not run dry. The components of these systems can last for years. The only part that requires regular servicing and replacement is the fuel filter.

Different Types of Fuel Systems

These systems can be categorised as either gravity feed or pressure feed. The pressure feed system is used in most modern cars. In these systems, fuel is immediately supplied to the engine when the vehicle is started. Cars can either use high-pressure fuel pumps or low-pressure fuel pumps. High-pressure fuel pumps are required for forced induction since they can maintain the pressure differential across fuel injectors. This way, the amount of fuel injected in a given cycle will be the same.

How can a Performance Fuel System improve your car?

Over time, the car engine is likely to deteriorate in power and performance if the system is not maintained. Fuel efficiency is the leading feature car enthusiasts look for in any modern vehicle. It is actually used as a measure of the car’s performance. Fuel efficiency is determined by many factors, and these include the type of engine, fuel and rolling resistance. Firstly, clean fuel and air filter are important for the efficient running of your car. The combustion chamber should also be clear of any deposits that may cause knocking in a vehicle. In addition, the fuel swirl pots should be checked regularly to ensure they are in good condition. Modern systems are digitised, meaning they are operated automatically by the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The automation of these system has enhanced vehicle performance, The result of this computerisation is higher speeds, reduced gas emissions and fuel economy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fuel System

Is it worth fitting a performance air filter?

Fitting a performance air filter can offer several benefits:

Improved Airflow: Performance air filters are designed to increase airflow to the engine, which can enhance performance.
Better Engine Efficiency: With improved airflow, the engine can operate more efficiently, potentially leading to better fuel economy.
Enhanced Throttle Response: Many users report a more responsive throttle, which can improve driving experience.
Longer Lifespan: Performance filters are often reusable and can last longer than standard filters, reducing replacement costs over time.
Potential Power Gains: Some drivers experience a slight increase in horsepower, although this can vary based on the vehicle and filter type.

However, the actual benefits can depend on the specific vehicle and driving conditions.

What are the cons of camming your car?

Camming your car can enhance performance, but it also comes with several drawbacks:

Increased Engine Wear: A camshaft can put additional stress on engine components, leading to faster wear and potential failure.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Performance cams often result in lower fuel economy due to altered air-fuel mixtures.
Compromised Driveability: Cams can affect low-end torque, making the car less responsive at lower RPMs.
Noise Levels: Performance cams can increase engine noise, which may not be desirable for all drivers.
Potential Emissions Issues: Altered engine performance can lead to higher emissions, potentially causing issues with regulations.
Cost of Installation: Upgrading to a performance camshaft can be expensive, including parts and labour.
Compatibility Issues: Not all engines are compatible with aftermarket cams, which can limit options.

Do camshafts change engine sound?

Yes, camshafts can change the engine sound. The design and specifications of a camshaft influence the timing and duration of valve openings, which affects the engine's performance and acoustics. Factors that contribute to changes in engine sound include:

Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can create a more aggressive sound.
Profile: Different camshaft profiles can alter the exhaust note.
Engine RPM: Camshafts designed for higher RPMs may produce a different sound compared to those for lower RPMs.
Engine Type: The overall engine configuration (e.g., V8, inline) also affects how camshaft changes impact sound.

Why do cammed cars sound choppy?

Cammed cars sound choppy primarily due to the characteristics of the camshaft profile. Here are the main reasons:

Lift and Duration: A camshaft with higher lift and longer duration allows more air and fuel into the engine, creating a more aggressive sound.
Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can lead to a rougher idle, contributing to the choppy sound.
Idle Speed: Cams designed for performance often require a higher idle speed, which can accentuate the choppy noise.
Exhaust Note: The changes in exhaust flow dynamics due to the cam profile can alter the exhaust note, making it sound more aggressive and choppy.

Does camshaft affect acceleration?

Yes, the camshaft does affect acceleration. The camshaft controls the timing and duration of the engine's valve openings, which directly influences engine performance. Key factors include:

Valve Timing: Proper timing allows for optimal air-fuel mixture intake and exhaust gas expulsion, enhancing engine efficiency.
Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can improve power output at higher RPMs, which can lead to better acceleration.
Engine Tuning: A camshaft designed for performance can shift the power band, affecting how quickly the engine accelerates.

In summary, the design and specifications of the camshaft play a crucial role in determining how effectively an engine can accelerate.

Does camming a car make it louder?

Camming a car typically involves installing a performance camshaft, which can indeed make the engine louder. This increase in noise is due to several factors:

Increased Airflow: A performance camshaft allows for greater airflow into and out of the engine, which can enhance the exhaust note.
Higher RPMs: Cams designed for performance often operate at higher RPMs, producing a more aggressive sound.
Exhaust System Interaction: The camshaft can change the way exhaust gases exit the engine, potentially amplifying the sound through the exhaust system.

Overall, while camming a car can lead to a louder engine sound, the extent of the increase will depend on the specific camshaft used and the overall setup of the vehicle.

How much does it cost to replace a camshaft?

The cost to replace a camshaft can vary significantly based on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, labour costs, and whether you choose an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket part. Typical costs include:

Parts: £200 to £1,000
Labour: £300 to £800

Overall, the total cost for camshaft replacement can range from approximately £500 to £1,800. Always consult with a mechanic for a precise estimate based on your specific vehicle.

Do camshafts increase horsepower?

Yes, camshafts can increase horsepower. They play a crucial role in controlling the timing and duration of the engine's intake and exhaust valves. Upgrading to a performance camshaft can enhance airflow, improve engine efficiency, and increase power output. Benefits of a performance camshaft include:

Improved airflow into and out of the engine
Increased torque and horsepower at higher RPMs
Better throttle response
Optimised engine performance for specific driving conditions

However, the extent of the horsepower increase depends on various factors, including the engine type, other modifications, and tuning.

What does a higher lift camshaft do?

A higher lift camshaft increases the amount of valve lift, allowing the engine to draw in more air and fuel during the intake stroke. This can lead to improved engine performance in several ways:

Increased Airflow: More air entering the combustion chamber can enhance combustion efficiency.
Higher Power Output: With better airflow, the engine can produce more power, especially at higher RPMs.
Improved Torque: A higher lift can also contribute to increased torque, particularly in performance applications.
Enhanced Throttle Response: The engine may respond more quickly to throttle inputs due to improved airflow dynamics.

However, it is important to consider that a higher lift camshaft may require additional modifications to the engine, such as upgraded valve springs and potentially changes to the engine's tuning.

What makes a cam aggressive?

An aggressive camshaft is characterised by several key features that enhance engine performance. These include:

Increased Lift: Higher lift allows the engine to draw in more air and fuel, improving combustion efficiency.
Longer Duration: A longer duration keeps the intake and exhaust valves open for a greater portion of the engine cycle, allowing for better airflow.
Steeper Ramp Rates: Faster opening and closing of the valves can lead to more power at higher RPMs.
Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can enhance performance by improving scavenging of exhaust gases.
Profile Shape: The specific shape of the cam lobes can influence how the engine responds at different RPMs, with aggressive profiles typically favouring high RPM performance.

These characteristics contribute to a camshaft that provides more power and responsiveness, particularly in performance-oriented applications.

Fuel System