The Essential Guide to Navigating the Facet Fuel Pump Catalogue: Find Your Perfect Pump

Understanding the Facet fuel pump catalogue is your single most valuable tool for quickly identifying, selecting, and sourcing the exact electric fuel pump your vehicle or application requires. This comprehensive system, developed over decades by Facet (a Purolator brand), empowers mechanics, restorers, racers, and industrial users to bypass confusion and avoid costly mismatches. Whether you're replacing a failed pump on a vintage car, upgrading a performance engine, or powering specialized equipment, deciphering this catalogue efficiently means getting the right pump, delivered faster, the first time. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to confidently use the Facet fuel pump catalogue to your advantage.

Why the Facet Fuel Pump Catalogue Matters
Think of the Facet catalogue not just as a list of parts, but as a structured database built around specific engineering characteristics and application requirements. Facet produces an enormous range of electric fuel pumps, each designed for precise pressure outputs, flow rates, voltage needs, fuel types, mounting positions, and environmental conditions. Selecting based solely on vehicle make and model often leads to errors, especially for older or modified vehicles where original specs may be unclear or changed. The Facet catalogue uses a consistent part numbering and classification system that transcends vague descriptions, directly linking pump performance specs to its unique identifier. Mastering this system grants you independence from limited supplier knowledge and ensures compatibility.

The Backbone: Deciphering Facet Part Numbers
Unlike random alphanumeric strings, Facet part numbers follow a deliberate, informative pattern. Understanding this pattern is key to using the catalogue effectively. Let's break down a common example: 40105.

• The First Digit (4): This typically signifies the core product family or "series." In this case, "4" often represents their highly popular "Solid State" series of cylinder-shaped pumps, known for durability, variety, and widespread use in automotive applications.
• The Next Two Digits (01): These usually indicate a specific model within that series family. Each model number group (like 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, etc.) corresponds to a unique combination of pressure, flow, and connection specifications. For instance, "01" models often have specific low-pressure characteristics, while "04" or "06" models might be higher pressure.
• The Final Two Digits (05): These frequently denote critical variations or options applicable to that base model. This can include:
  • Connection Type: Inlet/Outlet thread size (e.g., 1/8" NPT, 5/16" hose barb), orientation (straight, 90-degree elbow), or fitting material (brass, steel).
  • Voltage: While many base models are designed for 12V, suffixes might denote 6V versions or specific low-amp variants.
  • Mounting Bracket: The presence or type of integrated bracket.
  • Special Features: Compatibility with specific fuels (like high ethanol blends), special seals, or regulatory certifications.
  • Minor Design Revision: Sometimes indicates a minor internal update without changing the core model specs.

Therefore, part number 40105 translates to: Solid State series, base model "01" (defining flow/pressure), with specific variant "05" (likely defining the connection type and possibly voltage). Other examples:

• 40252: Solid State series (4), model "02" (different pressure/flow than 01), variant "52".
• 60331: Cube Pump series (6), model "03", variant "31".

Understanding Facet's Major Pump Series
The catalogue organizes pumps into distinct series, each designed for specific application types. Recognizing these series helps narrow your search dramatically:

1. Solid State Cylinder Pumps (4-Series): The backbone for automotive fuel delivery. These robust, cylindrical pumps are engineered for continuous duty, handling gasoline and diesel. Popular models include:

   • 40105: Extremely common, reliable general-purpose 12V pump, often used in carbureted applications requiring low pressure (3-4 PSI) and moderate flow.
   • 40106: Similar basic performance to 40105 but may have different connections.
   • 40107: Another common low-pressure carburetor pump.
   • 40205: Higher pressure output range (often 4.5 - 6.5 PSI) suitable for some carburetors or TBI systems.
   • 40252: Versatile pump found in many European applications and some carbureted/early fuel injection setups.
   • 40275: Designed for marine use, featuring corrosion-resistant casings.
   • 40373: Known for high flow capacity at lower pressures.
   • 41401: Often specified for certain Japanese vehicles.
   • 41412: Similar application niche to 41401.
   • 41708: Designed for high-flow requirements, potentially for large carburetors or auxiliary applications.

2. "Cube" Pumps (6-Series): Renowned for their reliability and compact size. These pumps are prevalent in OEM applications (especially EFI), marine engines, and auxiliary needs:

   • 60331: Very common 12V EFI pump used in countless GM TBI and aftermarket EFI systems.
   • 60334: Similar to 60331 but often with different flow/pressure or connections.
   • 60445: Used in various marine and industrial applications.
   • 60461 & 60473: High-pressure pumps capable of supporting modern port fuel injection demands.
   • 60732 & 60734: Suitable for specific EFI or higher-pressure requirements.
   • 61303: Often found in specific marine engine applications.
   • 61306 & 61307: Marine-specific pumps meeting stringent safety standards.
   • 67708 & 67709: Designed for high-flow applications.

3. High-Pressure Pumps: Designed for demanding applications like EFI and direct injection, exceeding the pressure of standard cylinder or cube pumps:

   • FEP30SV: Competes with the Bosch 044, delivering very high flow and pressure for performance EFI and turbo setups.
   • FEP40SV: Ultra-high-performance pump capable of supporting extreme horsepower levels.
   • FEP60SV: Designed for high-volume, high-pressure industrial and racing applications.

4. Dedicated Diesel Pumps: Engineered for the unique lubricity and viscosity of diesel fuel, often handling higher pressures common in modern diesel systems:

   • 60125: Compact pump suitable for various diesel applications.
   • 60130: Used in auxiliary diesel transfer or priming applications.
   • 60150: Robust pump designed for continuous duty on diesel engines, generators, or transfer systems.
   • 60152 & 60153: Often found in standby generator fuel delivery systems.

5. Low Pressure/Transfer Pumps: For applications needing high flow volumes at very low pressure, such as fuel transfer between tanks, filling equipment, or feeding high-demand carbureted setups:

   • 476018E: High-volume, low-pressure pump suitable for transfer tasks.
   • 476021E: Compact pump designed for diesel and kerosene transfer.

Key Specifications Explained - Matching Pump to Need
Browsing the Facet fuel pump catalogue effectively requires understanding the critical specifications listed for each part number and how they relate to your application:

1. Operating Pressure Range (PSI): This is the pressure the pump is designed to deliver against. It's not the maximum pressure it can dead-head to.

   • Carbureted Engines: Typically require 3-7 PSI (Specific carb model dictates exact need).
   • Throttle Body Injection (TBI): Usually require 9-15 PSI.
   • Port Fuel Injection (PFI): Commonly require 30-70 PSI.
   • Diesel: Pressure needs vary widely from low-pressure lift pumps (~5-15 PSI) feeding high-pressure injection pumps, to direct injection pumps operating at extremely high pressures (1000s of PSI - usually handled by specialized pumps beyond Facet's main catalogue).
   • Selecting a pump with too low a max operating pressure for EFI will cause starvation at high demand. Too high for a carburetor risks flooding or damaging components.

2. Flow Rate (GPH - Gallons Per Hour): Indicates the volume of fuel the pump can deliver at a specified test pressure. This spec is meaningless without the associated pressure.

   • Base calculations: Engine HP x 0.55 (lb fuel/hr per HP) / 6 (lb/gal gasoline) gives a rough minimum GPH needed at wide-open throttle (WOT). Always add a safety margin. EFI systems require significantly more flow than carburetors at the same horsepower level.
   • Underestimating flow needs leads to fuel starvation at peak engine demand.

3. Voltage: Self-explanatory but critical. 6V and 12V are the most common automotive/light truck voltages. Ensure your pump matches the vehicle's system voltage. Applying 12V to a 6V pump will destroy it. Applying 6V to a 12V pump will result in insufficient performance. Some pumps offer specific low-amperage versions.

4. Fuel Type Compatibility: Critical for longevity and safety.

   • Gasoline: Standard pumps cover standard gasoline. If using high ethanol blends (E10, E15, E85), verify compatibility. E85 requires specific internal seals and materials. Facet designates certain pumps for alcohol compatibility.
   • Diesel: Use pumps specifically engineered for diesel's properties.
   • Marine: Require corrosion-resistant materials and certifications (e.g., USCG, SAE J1171 for ignition protection). Check the catalogue for "Marine Use" designation.
   • Aircraft: Demand specialized pumps meeting rigorous aviation standards (Facet supplies this market).
   • Using a pump incompatible with your fuel leads to rapid deterioration and failure.

5. Mounting Position: Some pumps are designed solely for specific orientations:

   • Facet Gold-Flo Cylinder Pumps (4-Series): Often universal (any position).
   • Facet Cube Pumps (6-Series): Typically require vertical mounting with outlet port facing upwards. Mounting them sideways or upside-down drastically reduces lifespan and performance.
   • Transfer Pumps: Often submersible or designed for specific sump installations.
   • Mounting a pump incorrectly will cause premature failure. Check the catalogue description for mounting restrictions.

6. Connections: Specifies the size and type of inlet and outlet ports.

   • Threaded Ports (NPT/NPS): Common sizes are 1/8" NPT, 1/4" NPT. Specify if male or female threads. Indicates if an elbow fitting is integrated.
   • Hose Barbs: Sized by inner hose diameter (e.g., 5/16", 3/8"). Ensure the barb size matches your fuel line size for a leak-free, secure fit.
   • Incorrect connections require adapters, increasing complexity and potential leak points.

7. Case Material: Brass, Steel, or Composite (on some cube pumps). Impacts corrosion resistance, especially important for harsh environments or specific fuel types.

Navigating Specific Application Challenges
The Facet fuel pump catalogue shines when dealing with these common scenarios:

• Vintage and Classic Cars: Original pumps are often NLA. Identify the required pressure and flow for the engine/carburetor combination. Search the catalogue's cylinder pump section for the correct PSI/GPH values. Pay close attention to voltage (many older cars are 6V) and connection types. Popular replacements include 40105, 40107, 40205.
• Performance and Racing: Demand high flow and high pressure. Look beyond standard series to high-pressure models like FEP30SV, FEP40SV, or robust cylinder pumps rated for the needed PSI. Ensure flow rates support the engine's power potential at the required pressure. Factor in fuel type (race gas, methanol, E85 compatibility). Fuel cell requirements might dictate specific pump mounting (external vs. internal/sump).
• Marine Applications: Mandatory need for ignition-protected (e.g., SAE J1171) and corrosion-resistant pumps. Look for specific "Marine Use" callouts in the catalogue. Models like 40275 (cylinder) or 61306/61307 (cube) are examples.
• Industrial and Agricultural Equipment: Often require durability under harsh conditions and compatibility with diesel fuel. Pumps like 60150 are built for such demanding continuous duty. Ensure voltage matches the equipment.
• Fuel Transfer and Auxiliary Systems: Focus on flow rate needed at low pressure. Pumps like 476018E or 476021E are designed for transfer tasks. Consider fuel type and mounting location.
• Restorations Needing Exact Original Appearance: While Facet may supply exact reproduction pumps for some classics, often a functional equivalent that fits the mounting bracket and lines is the solution (check dimensions in the catalogue!).

Choosing the Right Facet Pump - A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine Required Pressure: Consult the carburetor specs, EFI system manual, or diesel injection pump requirements.
2. Calculate Required Flow: Based on engine horsepower (use the 0.55 BSFC calculation for gas, slightly higher for EFI) and add 20-30% safety margin. Use manufacturer specs if available.
3. Identify Voltage: Confirm if the vehicle/equipment is 6V or 12V.
4. Confirm Fuel Type: Standard gas, high ethanol gas (E15, E85), diesel, marine fuel?
5. Determine Mounting Constraints: Where will the pump go? What orientation is possible? Are there space limitations? (Check pump dimensions in catalogue).
6. Identify Connection Needs: What size and type of fuel lines do you have? Are threaded ports or hose barbs needed? Any specific fitting angles?
7. Consider Environment: Normal automotive, marine (salt/fresh water?), high vibration, extreme heat/cold?
8. Check Compatibility Lists (if available): While vehicle-specific lists can be a starting point (especially for EFI), always verify the specs against your requirements.
9. Search the Catalogue: Use the series overviews to narrow down potential families (4-Series, 6-Series, HP, Diesel, Transfer). Scan for pressure and flow ratings matching your needs. Pay close attention to voltage, fuel type, mounting restrictions, and connections listed under the specific part numbers (e.g., 40105, 60331, FEP30SV). Compare dimensions and other critical specs. The ideal pump meets all the essential specs, fits your mounting location, and has the correct connections.
10. Consult Supplier or Facet Directly: If unsure, reputable suppliers familiar with Facet products or Facet's technical support can help cross-reference needs to part numbers.

Installation Tips and Best Practices
Selecting the correct pump from the catalogue is vital, but proper installation is equally critical for longevity and performance:

1. Mounting:

   • Cylinder Pumps: Mount securely using the appropriate bracket. Minimize vibration transmission using rubber isolators. Ensure orientation follows the pump's design (most are universal).
   • Cube Pumps: MUST be mounted vertically with the outlet port facing upwards. Mounting horizontally or upside-down will cause air locks, cavitation, and rapid failure.
   • Location: Mount close to the fuel tank, low and after any filters in the tank outlet. Pumps are designed to push fuel, not pull it over long distances. Mounting high above the tank causes suction problems. Avoid excessive heat sources (exhaust manifolds).
   • Rubber Isolators: Always use the recommended rubber isolators or mounts to dampen vibration, a major cause of pump failure.

2. Wiring:

   • Use the correct gauge wire based on the pump's current draw and wire length (refer to wire gauge charts). Undersized wiring causes voltage drop, reducing pump performance and lifespan.
   • Incorporate a fuse or circuit breaker rated for the pump's amperage as close as possible to the power source.
   • Ensure clean, tight connections at terminals and grounds. A poor ground is a common culprit for electrical issues.
   • Follow vehicle-specific wiring diagrams for connections to ignition, inertia switch (if equipped), or relays.

3. Plumbing:

   • Use fuel-rated hose specifically designed for modern fuels (SAE J30R9 for EFI pressure applications, SAE J30R7 for carbureted applications). Standard vacuum hose will deteriorate.
   • Ensure hose clamps are tight and rated for fuel injection pressures if applicable. Use proper hose end fittings or adapters as needed.
   • Avoid kinks or sharp bends in fuel lines, restricting flow.
   • Install filters correctly. Generally, a coarse pre-filter between tank and pump protects the pump. A finer filter between pump and carb/injectors protects the engine.

4. Testing: Before fully securing everything, temporarily wire and plumb the pump to test for leaks, noise, and flow direction. Verify pressure at the end of the line using a gauge.

Troubleshooting Common Fuel Pump Issues
Even with the right pump, problems can arise. The Facet catalogue knowledge helps here too:

• Pump Runs But Delivers No/Low Fuel:

  • Cause: Clogged filter(s), air leak in suction line (cracked hose, loose fitting before pump), pinched fuel line, pump mounted too high above tank, blocked tank vent or pickup sock, incorrect voltage at pump terminals (poor connection or bad wiring).
  • Check: Suction line integrity, pre-filter condition, tank vent, voltage drop between battery and pump, ensure cube pump is outlet-up/vertical.

• Pump Whines Excessively:

  • Cause: Air in the system (suction leak, low fuel level), blocked outlet line or filter, pump cavitation (restricted inlet), poor mounting/vibration, failing pump bearings.
  • Check: Suction line for leaks/restrictions, fuel filters, mounting (rubber isolators present?), outlet restriction.

• Pump Delivers Fuel But Pressure is Too Low:

  • Cause: Weak pump (wrong pump selected, worn pump), voltage drop to pump, clogged filter(s), leaking pressure regulator (if applicable), restriction in lines.
  • Check: Voltage at pump terminals under load, filter condition, regulator function, verify correct pump specs for required pressure.

• Pump Delivers Too Much Pressure:

  • Cause: Wrong pump selected (too high PSI rating for application), faulty or misadjusted pressure regulator (in EFI), blocked return line (EFI).
  • Check: Pump specifications against requirement, pressure regulator operation, return line flow.

• Pump Doesn't Run:

  • Cause: Blown fuse/tripped circuit breaker, bad relay (if used), faulty inertia switch (if equipped), broken/disconnected wiring, open circuit in pump windings.
  • Check: Power and Ground at pump terminals (use multimeter), fuse/circuit breaker, relay control circuit, inertia switch reset.

Purchasing Your Facet Fuel Pump - Sourcing with Confidence
Once you've identified the exact Facet part number using the catalogue:

1. Authorized Distributors: Purchase from established automotive parts suppliers, marine stores, industrial suppliers, or restoration specialists known to carry genuine Facet products. Beware of counterfeit pumps; genuine Facet pumps have specific markings and build quality.
2. Verify the Part Number: Double-check the exact part number suffix (e.g., 40105 vs 40106) against the required connection type or voltage listed in the catalogue before ordering. A single digit difference can mean the wrong fittings.
3. Warranty & Support: Reputable sellers offer warranties and stand behind genuine products. Technical support can be valuable if questions arise during installation.

The Power is in the Part Number
Mastering the Facet fuel pump catalogue system empowers you to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently. By understanding the part numbering logic, recognizing the major series families, interpreting critical specifications like pressure, flow, and mounting, and applying this knowledge to your specific application's needs (auto, marine, diesel, industrial, vintage, performance), you eliminate guesswork. This directly translates to getting the perfect Facet pump installed correctly the first time – maximizing performance, reliability, and safety while saving time, money, and frustration. Keep this guide handy, refer to the official catalogue details, and navigate your fuel delivery projects with confidence.