Elle wrote:
> "Bill Putney" <bptn@kinez.net> wrote
>
>>*BUT* - again - the fuel is constantly flowing thru and
>>around all internal components of the pump whenever it is
>>running providing cooling (unless you actually run out and
>>the engine stops - but that is a different scenario
>>altogether, and even then, the pump will still be full of
>>fuel at that point with a full column of fuel from its
>>lowest end to the fuel rail - only the pickup will be
>>filled with air, and there won't be any flow - and most
>>cars turn the pump off when the computer senses that the
>>engine is no longer running).
>
>
> "most"? I would think you would want to err on the side of
> safety and not inconveniencing a driver with a sudden pump
> breakdown.
>
> Barring presentation of a study showing no detrimental
> effects of either regularly running on a very low tank or
> running to empty, I think not doing these things is easy
> enough and indeed an investment that costs one only a litle
> extra time getting gas over the life of the car. If possibly
> burdening the pump by forcing it to move air is not really a
> problem, then I remain concerned about dirt in the bottom of
> the tank clogging the filter and lines downstream of the
> pump prematurely, or possibly wearing mechanical parts on
> the pump, causing the pump to have to work harder, meaning
> it draws more current, aging electrical parts more quickly,
> etc.
>
> Does rust accumulate in fuel tanks? If so, does running it
> near empty hasten the buildup of rust?
>
> What are the leading causes of fuel pump failure? If it's
> "age," what exactly causes aging to accelerate?
>
> I do not want your speculation. I am well experienced in
> pump design myself. I want facts from a study of pump
> failure.
>
>

It isn't a study, but my post about my experiences involves quite a
few cars over several decades, and one car for 22 years. It also
includes another car over 9 years. I stand by what I wrote.