Fuel pump whine? Please help!

[Gib984]

Hi all,

Developed a high whining noise a while back and after a quick post here and responses I believed the problem was my alternator belt.

See post:

http://www.r1150r.net/board/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=25160

Anyway, after a quick research about how to access the belt I removed the cover and immediately knew that the noise wasn't coming from the belt at all but more like inside the petrol tank itself

Another quick search here reveals the problem could be the fuel pump and as I said in my original post, the noise did start immediately after nearly running out of petrol.

Some have said that I can check if it's the pump by swopping relays? How?

Also that it could be the filter - how do I remove this?

If it is the pump I know that the tank has to be removed for access (is it actually inside The tank?) but can I do anything to the pump once I access it to stop it whining or is the pump now knackered?

Any help would be really, really appreciated

Thanks.......

[deilenberger]

I'd suggest first changing the fuel filter.

If the pump is pushing against a plugged filter it will make noise. The filter is located under the tank in the U shaped relief. I believe it's connected via one-time use clamps, so you want to get some fuel injection rated clamps when you go to replace it (it's likely 6mm fuel line.) Don't use common screw clamps, they will mess up the hose. Fuel injection clamps are smooth on the inside surface, so they don't cut the fuel line, and compress evenly.

There is a reasonable possibility that if there was some crud in your tank, running it dry let it get sucked into the pump and through to the filter. Filter would be first. If that doesn't fix it - it's possible you've damaged the pump itself by running it dry, but my money is on the filter. Changing the fuel pump is a bigger job since it's inside the tank, and you have to remove an entire assembly and disconnect wiring to the fuel level sensor when you replace it.

There is no relay that can be changed/swapped to test this. The only relay on the bike is the starter relay.

Good luck and let us know how it works out for you.

[Gib984]

Thanks for the advice and recommendation

I'll give it a go as BMW Uk have quoted £350 to replace the pump - ouch

[bmwbob]

gary
if turns out to be the fuel pump i have one .
the flange on my bike cracked so had to replace
the hole assembly . so my pump is good . might
help you out .
bob

[Gib984]

Thanks Bob, I'll let you know how it goes