Fuel pump needs a little 'tap'

[Quint Van Deman]

From time to time, when I flip on the fuel pump to start, absolutely nothing happens. When this happens, I open the cowl, give it a small tap, and all returns to normal. I was told that this was simply the internal piston of the pump getting caught at top dead center, and the tap simply nudged it over. Does anyone else have to treat their fuel pump like a misbehaving child?

Thanks,

Quint

[Jay]

Mmmm... Sounds to me like it's time for a new/overhauled pump.

Jay

[Quint Van Deman]

The pump only has 120 hrs as another data point...

[Jay]

With 120 hours on the pump, I'd be asking for a refund or free exchange. A properly functioning pump (or anything else on an airplane) never needs a small tap in order to work.

Jay

[N3322G]

Ditto Jay's posts.

2 pumps in 42 years, no tapping required - did have to overhaul but no tapping

[Ray B]

Does the wiring only have a 120 hours also? If not check the wire connection. Had this problem 40 years ago on my first Comanche and the 'tap' was simply moving the broken wire enough to complete the circuit. Ray B

[Quint Van Deman]

OK, so I lied. The engine driven pump was replaced 120 hrs ago.
The 12V one has 1045 hrs/15 years on it.
So apparently a new one is in order the next time it's in the maintenance hangar.

Transforming the question, does anyone know the most economical replacement pump out there for a 180?

Thanks to all for confirming that the 'tap' procedure isn't 'normal'.

-Quint