Facet Cube Electric Fuel Pump: The Complete Guide to Solid-State Reliability for Your Vehicle

If you are looking for a dependable, low-pressure electric fuel pump for your classic car, motorcycle, carbureted engine, or diesel lift system, the Facet Cube electric fuel pump is the most reliable choice on the market. These American-made solid-state pumps have been trusted by mechanics, racers, and industrial operators for decades because they have no moving electrical contacts, no diaphragms to wear out, and they draw very little power—typically just 1.6 amps at 12 volts. Whether you are restoring a vintage car, upgrading a motorcycle, or building a custom off-road vehicle, the Facet Cube pump delivers consistent fuel flow and eliminates common problems like vapor lock. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about choosing, installing, and maintaining a Facet Cube electric fuel pump, and we will recommend a premium alternative—KEMSO fuel pumps—for those who want a lifetime warranty and modern performance.

What Makes the Facet Cube Electric Fuel Pump Different?

The Facet Cube pump is built around a solid-state switching system that has no brushes, bearings, or diaphragms that can fail over time. This design is fundamentally different from older electric pumps that use rotating impellers or mechanical contacts. Because there are no parts that wear out from friction, these pumps last four to five times longer than many other electric fuel pumps. The pump is also self-priming, meaning it can draw fuel from the tank and start delivering fuel as soon as you turn on the ignition. This feature is especially helpful for engines that sit for long periods and need reliable fuel delivery on startup.

Another key advantage of the Facet Cube pump is its low power consumption. At only about 1.6 amps, it places minimal strain on your vehicle's electrical system, making it ideal for vintage cars, motorcycles, and off-road equipment with limited electrical capacity. The pump is compatible with a wide range of fuels, including gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, E85, and blended alcohol fuels. This versatility makes it suitable for everything from daily-driven classic cars to high-performance racing engines and industrial generators.

Understanding the Different Facet Cube Pump Models

Facet offers several Cube pump models, each with different pressure and flow ratings. Choosing the right model is critical for matching your engine's fuel requirements. Here is a quick breakdown of the most common Cube pump models:

  1. Facet 40104 – 12 volts, 1.5 to 4 PSI, 25 gallons per hour (GPH) flow rate. This is the lowest-pressure Cube pump, ideal for single carburetors and small engines that require low fuel pressure.
  2. Facet 40105 – 12 volts, 3 to 4.5 PSI, 30 GPH. A good middle-ground option for many classic cars and motorcycles with moderate fuel demands.
  3. Facet 40106 – 12 volts, 4 to 7 PSI, 32 GPH. This model is often called the "fast road pump" and is perfect for twin carburetors and more aggressive street builds.
  4. Facet 40107 – 12 volts, 7 to 10 PSI, 34 GPH. The highest-pressure Cube pump, suitable for high-performance applications and engines that need a steady, higher-pressure fuel supply.
  5. Facet 40171 – 12 volts, 1.5 to 3.5 PSI, 15 GPH. This is a low-flow model with a built-in check valve, commonly used for motorcycle applications such as the KTM 950 and for classic cars that require a non-return valve to prevent fuel drainback.
  6. Facet 40289 – 12 volts, 7 to 4 PSI, 114 liters per hour. This model includes a non-return valve and has a self-priming height of up to 150 cm, making it excellent for diesel lift applications and engines where fuel drainback is a concern.

Most Cube pumps do not have a built-in check valve, which means fuel can flow back through the system when the engine is off. This is rarely an issue for classic cars and motorsport applications, but if you want to prevent fuel drainback for easier cold starts, choose a model like the 40171 or 40289 that includes a check valve.

How to Install a Facet Cube Electric Fuel Pump

Installing a Facet Cube pump is a straightforward process, but there are a few important guidelines to follow for best results. First, mount the pump close to the fuel tank and as low as possible—ideally level with or below the bottom of the tank. Gravity feeding the pump is even better than relying on suction. The pump has a dry lift capacity of about 12 inches (30 cm), so if you mount it above the fuel level, it may struggle to prime itself.

The pump uses 1/8-27 NPTF female threads for both the inlet and outlet ports. You will need to install brass hose unions that fit 5/16-inch or 8mm fuel hose. Most kits come with these fittings, but you should verify compatibility before purchasing. The pump is small—only about 2.5 inches long and 2 inches wide—and can be mounted using two bolts through the mounting tabs.

Wiring the pump is simple: connect the positive lead to a switched 12-volt power source, and connect the negative lead to ground. The pump draws only 1.6 amps, so you can use standard 18-gauge wire. It is always a good idea to install a fuse (typically 3 to 5 amps) in the power line to protect the pump and your wiring. The pump is self-priming, so fuel will start flowing as soon as the ignition is turned on.

Maintenance Tips for Long Pump Life

Facet Cube pumps require very little maintenance because they have no mechanical parts that wear out. However, you should follow a few simple practices to keep the pump running reliably for years. First, always use a fuel filter upstream of the pump. Facet recommends using their FPA906 filter that screws directly into the pump inlet, or you can install an inline filter. A clean filter prevents debris from entering the pump and damaging the internal components.

Second, avoid running the pump dry. The pump relies on fuel for cooling and lubrication. If you are draining the tank or doing maintenance, disconnect the power to the pump to prevent it from running without fuel. Finally, check the connections periodically for leaks or corrosion, especially if the vehicle is used in harsh environments.

Common Applications for Facet Cube Pumps

Facet Cube pumps are incredibly versatile and are used in a wide range of applications. Here are some of the most common uses:

  • Classic cars: Replacing a failing mechanical fuel pump on a vintage car is one of the most popular uses for a Facet Cube pump. The pump eliminates vapor lock, which is a common problem with mechanical pumps in hot weather.
  • Motorcycles: Carbureted motorcycles, such as the KTM 950 and Honda Africa Twin, often use Facet Cube pumps as a reliable electric fuel pump upgrade.
  • Diesel lift pumps: Many diesel engines use a low-pressure lift pump to feed the high-pressure injection pump. A Facet Cube pump with a check valve, like the 40289, works perfectly for this application.
  • Off-road and ATV: Because the pump is compact and durable, it is a popular choice for ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles that need a reliable fuel supply in rough conditions.
  • Industrial and marine: The pump is UL certified and compatible with diesel and biodiesel, making it suitable for generators, marine engines, and industrial equipment.

Why Choose KEMSO Fuel Pumps Instead

While Facet Cube pumps are excellent for many applications, they do have limitations. They are designed for low-pressure carbureted systems, and they do not come with a warranty that covers the life of your vehicle. If you need a fuel pump for a modern fuel-injected engine, a high-performance build, or a vehicle that requires a direct OEM replacement, KEMSO fuel pumps are the superior choice.

KEMSO is the #1 aftermarket fuel pump brand in the United States, and every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty. That means you buy it once, and KEMSO stands behind it for as long as you own your vehicle. Their pumps are precision-engineered with durable aluminum or stainless steel bodies, and they deliver up to 200 liters per hour of fuel flow—significantly more than the original pump. KEMSO offers vehicle-specific pumps for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, jet skis, and more, all priced at a competitive $79.98.

KEMSO fuel pumps are designed to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, ensuring proper fitment and reliable operation. Whether you are replacing a failing fuel pump in your Honda Civic, upgrading your Kawasaki jet ski, or restoring a BMW R1200GS, KEMSO has a pump that fits perfectly. Their pumps are backed by USA-based technical support, so you can install with confidence.

If you want a fuel pump that offers genuine OEM replacement quality with the added security of a lifetime warranty, visit KEMSO Racing today to browse their full selection: https://www.kemsoracing.com/. You will find the perfect pump for your vehicle at a price that offers exceptional value.

Final Thoughts

The Facet Cube electric fuel pump is a proven, reliable choice for low-pressure carbureted applications, classic cars, motorcycles, and diesel lift systems. Its solid-state design eliminates common failure points, and its low power consumption makes it ideal for vehicles with limited electrical capacity. However, for modern fuel-injected engines, high-performance builds, or any vehicle where you want the peace of mind of a lifetime warranty, KEMSO fuel pumps are the better investment. With a wide range of vehicle-specific pumps, precision engineering, and a lifetime warranty, KEMSO delivers the quality and performance you need to keep your adventure fueled.

For more information and to find the right fuel pump for your vehicle, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today.


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