questions about heating fuel
I am considering heating the fuel on my water cooled motorcycle. what is the least amount of heat I can use, and still see some gains? my concerns are related to my carbs. I want to avoid vapor lock, even if I have to add an electric fuel pump.
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Re: questions about heating fuel
For every 25 degrees F you add to the fuel, you vaporize an additional 10% up to about 435. Find the compromise between better vaporization and vapor lock.
MIke
Re: questions about heating fuel
thanks for the info. I will start conservatively, and work my way up.
Re: questions about heating fuel
Well, any improvment in FE? I plan to build my own fuel heater, so it would be nice to hear testimonials of successful atempts.
Re: questions about heating fuel
Here are some testimonials for you: - '70 Plymouth Duster 225-6, carb; wrapped a portion of steel fuel line around the heater hose and picked up about 2 mpg. Couldn't add too much there. - '06 Dodge Magnum, 3.5-6; made enclosed box with fuel line coils inside. Box had engine coolant circulating. Went from an already modified 29 mpg to a whopping 83 mpg for about 2 weeks (dang computers!). - '98 Buick 3.8-6 picked up about 35% with mild fuel heater, magnets, and fuel additive - '91 Dodge Spirit R/T 2.2 16-V turbo, picked up about 4 mpg
Not extensive, but illustrative. I have only done a couple fuel heaters, but never had one not give me at least a noticeable amount of mileage gain.
Mike
Re: questions about heating fuel
I plan to do one similar to the Dodge Magnum you mentioned.
Stainless 316L 1 1/2" tube x 4" long(least magnetized grade). 1" diameter Neo magnets...about 3 end to end. Copper fuel line wrapped around the magnets. Coolant circulating throughout. On my Tundra, 4.7L, I have a small coolant line coming from the heater core that is about 8 inches from my fuel line. I figure I can use a section near there for the heater to splice in. I've got some extensive TIG welding experience that should make this an easy project.
I'm also planning to do an ozone mod....about 150-200mg/hr unit....feeding into the same 'T' that my Aquatune is in.
Then maybe I'll upgrade my spark plugs to the Halo's. $8/ea.
You mentioned 'dang computers'.....what happened to the 83mpg? That's a large jump from 29.
Re: questions about heating fuel
Hey Mike, as a side note that is off topic....what is the history behind the photo in your avatar? What is that contraption?
Re: questions about heating fuel
[quote="Ryanrpm"] You mentioned 'dang computers'.....what happened to the 83mpg? That's a large jump from 29.[/quote] After 3 weeks it was back to the 29 mpg.
[quote] Hey Mike, as a side note that is off topic....what is the history behind the photo in your avatar? What is that contraption? [/quote] In The Ultimate Fuel Economy Book I recommend trying things on small engines before putting them on cars. This is a 5kW genset that I was experimenting with vaporization and cracking of the fuel. I powder coated and painted everything I possibly could, custom built the frame around it, and even added simple electronic controlls to make experimenting more exacting. I definately learned alot from this and am glad I didn't go right to the car.
Mike
Re: questions about heating fuel
I've already planted the seed in my wifes ear about getting me that book for Christmas. So, if you don't mind me asking, what were some of the things you tried that did not work?
Re: questions about heating fuel
Guess I'll have to get the book....... :)