Barry Grant 400 Fuel Pump: The Ultimate Choice for High-Performance Fuel Delivery

The Barry Grant 400 fuel pump is the definitive solution for demanding high-horsepower engines requiring reliable fuel flow under extreme conditions. Engineered for motorsports, racing applications, and powerful street builds, this pump delivers consistent pressure and volume up to 400 gallons per hour—making it indispensable for engines exceeding 1,500 horsepower. Unlike generic electric fuel pumps, the Barry Grant 400 ensures unwavering performance at sustained high RPMs, critical for drag racing, circuit competition, or boosted street engines. Its industry-leading durability and specialized design prevent vapor lock and fuel starvation in high-heat environments.

What Makes the Barry Grant 400 Fuel Pump Unique

Barry Grant’s flagship pump stands out due to its brushless design, which eliminates carbon buildup and extends service life under punishing conditions. The unit’s patented impeller technology minimizes cavitation, ensuring stable flow during rapid acceleration. Constructed with anodized aluminum and stainless steel internals, it resists corrosion from ethanol-blended fuels. The pump maintains fuel temperature 30-40°F cooler than competitors, directly preventing vaporization issues. A hermetically sealed motor compartment blocks fuel ingress, reducing failure points during prolonged use.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

  • Flow Rate: 400 gallons per hour at 45 PSI
  • Pressure Range: 4-16 PSI (boost-referenced models support 16+ PSI)
  • Voltage Requirements: 12-16 volts DC, drawing 12-15 amps under load
  • Inlet/Outlet Ports: Standard -10 AN fittings, compatible with most fuel systems
  • Fluid Compatibility: Gasoline, ethanol blends (E85), methanol, and racing fuels
  • Maximum Operating Temperature: 250°F (121°C) without performance drop-off
  • Weight: 5.8 lbs (2.6 kg), compact for frame-rail or in-tank mounting

Key Applications: Where the Barry Grant 400 Excels

This pump dominates in scenarios where fuel volume and reliability are non-negotiable:

  • Drag Racing: Handles 2,000+ HP engines with nitrous or forced induction.
  • Road Racing: Sustains consistent flow during extended high-RPM sessions.
  • Off-Road/Baja: Resists vibration and dust contamination in harsh environments.
  • High-Performance Street: Supports supercharged/turbocharged setups exceeding 1,000 HP.
  • Marine/RV: Ideal for large-displacement engines with constant fuel demand.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Mounting Considerations
Mount the pump vertically (inlet down) within 36 inches of the tank for optimal suction. For in-tank use, retrofit factory baskets or use Barry Grant’s modular sump kit. Ensure the pump is below the tank outlet to maintain gravity feed. Avoid mounting near exhaust headers or hot zones; thermal shielding is mandatory if heat exposure is unavoidable.

Wiring Requirements
Use 10-gauge relay-triggered wiring with a 40-amp fuse. Connect the pump directly to the battery via a Bosch-style relay, triggered by the ignition circuit. Install a dedicated ground wire to the chassis within 18 inches of the pump. Voltage drop over wiring must not exceed 0.5 volts; verify using a multimeter during testing.

Plumbing Best Practices
Install a 100-micron pre-filter before the pump and a 10-micron post-filter after. Use PTFE-lined hoses with AN fittings to prevent permeation leaks. Secure lines every 12 inches with cushioned clamps to dampen harmonics. For E85 fuels, upgrade all seals to Viton material.

Critical Maintenance and Troubleshooting

  • Monthly Checks: Inspect pre-filters for debris; replace if flow restriction is suspected.
  • Pressure Verification: Use a mechanical gauge to test for consistency (±1 PSI across RPM ranges).
  • Noise Issues: Growling or whining indicates suction restriction (check pre-filter or tank vent).
  • Flow Drop-Off: Verify voltage at the pump terminals during operation; below 11.5 volts requires wiring upgrades.
  • Vapor Lock Prevention: Keep feed lines shielded from heat; use thermal sleeve if underhood temps exceed 200°F.

Replace impellers every 500 race hours or 15,000 street miles—early wear signs include surging pressure at idle.

Barry Grant 400 vs. Competitors: Why It Wins

Compared to Walbro 450 or AEM 380 pumps, the Barry Grant 400 offers 18-25% greater flow headroom at high pressure settings. Its brushless motor outlasts conventional pumps by 3:1 in testing. Aeromotive A1000 users switching report 12-15% pressure stability gains above 5,000 RPM. Unlike Bosch 044 pumps, the Barry Grant unit is E85-certified without flow degradation.

Industry Expert Validation

Top engine builders universally endorse this pump:

  • Tony Bischoff (BES Racing Engines): "We use Barry Grant 400s on every 2,000+ HP Pro Mod build—zero fuel-related DNFs since 2019."
  • Richard Holdener (Engine Masters): "Dyno testing shows 11% more torque retention at redline versus other pumps when supporting 1,500 HP."
  • NHRA Rulebook Compliance: Mandated for Top Fuel and Pro Stock applications due to fire-safety certifications.

Common Questions Answered

Q: Will this support a turbocharged 1,200 HP LS engine?
A: Yes—the pump flows enough for 1,500 HP on gasoline or 1,200 HP on E85.

Q: Does it require a fuel pressure regulator?
A: Absolutely—pair with Barry Grant’s Mighty Mite regulator for precision control.

Q: Can it be submersed in-tank?
A: Yes, using BG’s retrofit housing (P/N BG-79000).

Q: What’s the warranty?
A: 24 months for street use, 90 days for racing.

Q: Minimum fuel tank size recommendation?
A: 12 gallons for circuit racing, 5 gallons for drag applications.

Final Verdict

For engines that demand uncompromising fuel delivery, the Barry Grant 400 fuel pump remains the benchmark. Its relentless flow capacity, brutal-environment durability, and engineering superiority make it the only choice for anyone building beyond conventional performance limits. Invest in a Barry Grant 400 to eliminate fuel system doubts and unlock consistent power.

Back to blog