Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled day as Quantum Fuel Systems drivers Anthony West and Blake Wilkey gear up to showcase their incredible driving skills at the highly anticipated Terra Crew event, Speed Metal, on Saturday, May 27. This action-packed event promises a thrilling combination of off-road racing, drifting, car show, live music, vendors, and an abundance of fun for all attendees. Let’s dive into the details and discover what makes this event an unmissable experience for automotive enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Off-Road Racing
Terra Crew’s Speed Metal event brings together some of the most talented drivers in the off-road racing scene, and West and Wilkey are no exception. With their driving prowess, these drivers are set to push the limits and battle it out on the dirt track. Buckle up as you witness these drivers navigate obstacles, conquer jumps, and demonstrate their mastery of off-road racing.
Car Drifting
For those who appreciate the art of controlled chaos, the car drifting portion of Speed Metal promises to be a highlight. West and Wilkey are known for their impressive car control and ability to make their vehicles dance through tight corners and exhibit remarkable maneuvers. Their precise throttle control and fearless attitude are sure to leave the spectators in awe as they witness a mesmerizing display of car-drifting expertise.
Car Show
Speed Metal is more than high-octane racing; it’s also an opportunity for car enthusiasts to enjoy displays of automotive excellence. From classic beauties to modern marvels, the car show will feature a wide range of vehicles, each more unique than the last. Attendees will have the chance to interact with passionate car owners, learn about the intricate details of their vehicles, and indulge in all things automotive.
Live Music and Vendors
In addition to the motorsport action, Speed Metal promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music, vendors, and a fun ambiance. Whether you’re looking for automotive accessories, merchandise, or delectable food, the event’s diverse array of vendors will cater to your every need. As you soak in the adrenaline-charged atmosphere, the live music will add a rhythmic backdrop, keeping the energy levels soaring throughout the event.
Fun and Camaraderie
Speed Metal aims to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among automotive enthusiasts. As attendees share their passion for speed and performance, friendships are forged, and memories are created. Whether you’re a hardcore racing fan, a casual observer, or simply seeking a day filled with excitement, Speed Metal provides an inclusive and exhilarating environment where everyone can come together and revel in their shared love for shred culture.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 27, as Quantum Fuel System drivers, along with a host of talented racers, take center stage at the Speed Metal event. Speed Metal will be held at the Adelanto Events Center in Adelanto, CA. Tickets can be purchased at www.theterracrew.com or at the door. Doors open to the public at 9:00 a.m.
Replacing a fuel pump can be daunting for any first-timer. It’s tough to know what tools you’ll need or the exact steps, as they differ depending on the vehicle you’re working on. Luckily, there are a lot of commonalities when it comes to replacing fuel pumps, whether you’re talking about a car, truck, motorcycle, snowmobile, boat, or Side-by-Side/UTV.
If you’re nervous about diving into your fuel system for the first time, you’ve come to the right place! We’ll be going through some helpful tips, tricks, and guidelines that will get you prepared to perform a fuel pump replacement in your vehicle.
Your OEM fuel pump will fail and need to be updated with a reliable Quantum Fuel Systems fuel pump. QFS is a fuel system industry leader specializing in direct OEM replacement components for virtually every vehicle on the road, trail, or water today — all backed by a lifetime warranty.
Direct OEM replacement means you’ll never have to worry about our proven products not fitting your application. We painstakingly design our products to be installed as trouble-free as possible.
If you’ve followed our guide on how to diagnose a bad fuel pump and want to take the plunge, then let’s get into what you’ll need, what you’ll need to know, and what you can expect before you start diving into a fuel pump replacement.
Getting these jobs done is approachable, but difficulty levels vary considerably. This article aims to help you determine if you can do it yourself or want to call in the help of an authorized professional, and it shouldn’t be used as a strict guide —there are simply too many vehicle variations to cover. We always recommend that owners have a model-specific service manual to precisely assist them with the process.
Identify and Diagnose
Before you press the checkout button on a shiny new QFS fuel pump replacement kit for your car, truck, boat, motorcycle, ATV, or UTV, you’ll want to ensure it’s the right call.
Be sure to reference the steps in our article, “How to Diagnose a Bad ATV, Motorcycle, UTV/Side-by-Side Fuel Pump,” which has a wealth of information to get you pointed in the right direction. Don’t worry; if you’re working on anything in the automotive world, all the advice there still applies.
There are several symptoms of a bad fuel pump, but these are the most common:
Not starting
Hard starting (struggling to start)
Failing to idle
Power surges
Acceleration issues
Audible whining
While those symptoms can indicate deeper mechanical issues, these symptoms or a combination can often indicate fuel system issues.
Then there’s diagnosis. You’ll want to confirm if the fuel pump is priming, check all fuses and relays, and confirm the pump is getting power and creating enough pressure. If it fails any of those tests, it’s time to break out the tools.
Tools of the Trade
In most cases, you won’t need anything more than a basic set of hand tools to get the job done. But there are plenty of other considerations as well. Since we’ll be dealing with highly flammable fuel and potentially harmful vapors, we’ll want to ensure that we have proper safety equipment and work in a well-ventilated space.
Here’s a short list of the tools you’ll need to have on hand:
Fuel-safe storage container
Eye protection
Nitrile gloves
A complete set of hand tools (metric for foreign vehicles; standard for domestic)
Mechanics picks
Pex clamp tool
Pliers
Rags/absorbent for spilled fuel (clay-type cat litter, baking soda, or commercial absorbent)
Jack stands
Floor jack w/ fuel tank-sized block of wood
Wheel chocks
Fire extinguisher
Siphon or pump to transfer fuel
O-ring grease
Weigh Your Options: Do It Yourself or Contact The Pros
Paying a certified mechanic can be incredibly costly between parts and labor. Meanwhile, performing the job yourself in the comfort of your garage will save quite a bit of your hard-earned cash. The question here is: Should you?
There are some considerations. This type of work means you’ll be handling and exposed to flammable fuel, which poses risks. For example, you may need to drain the fuel tank if the entire fuel tank must be dropped from a car, truck, or van or physically removed from a motorcycle/ATV. These types of situations can be labor intensive.
You can probably figure this out if you successfully change a flat tire. Any enterprising at-home mechanic can complete these tasks within an afternoon. QFS fuel pumps are designed to work seamlessly with your specific make and model. But, if you feel your time is more valuable spent elsewhere, having an authorized and licensed mechanic perform the service isn’t a bad route.
Replacing a Fuel Pump
Getting Prepped To Replace Your Fuel Pump
Those feeling confident about working on their rides should understand the level of work they’re committing to on their day off. Of course, a factory service manual will clearly outline every step necessary to upgrade the fuel pump. However, we’ll hit the highlights to paint a clearer picture.
When performing any major service work, always disconnect the negative battery terminal to disable the electrical system to prevent any damage to electrical components and avoid fire hazards.
In addition, you’ll want to secure your vehicle safely. Use jack stands, wheel chocks, motorcycle stands, etc., to ensure your vehicle does not move unexpectedly.
Access The Fuel Pump
Most modern cars, trucks, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and Side-by-Sides/UTVs use “in-tank” fuel pumps inside the fuel tank. This location helps keep the fuel pump cool while submerged in liquid fuel and prolongs its lifespan but makes it difficult to access. Some automobiles and Side-by-Sides/UTVs have a fuel tank access under the seat, making servicing far easier.
Many cars and trucks require that the fuel tanks be unbolted from the undercarriage, which will require the assistance of a floor jack, especially if the fuel tank has fuel in it.
To do that successfully, you’ll want to disconnect the filler neck from the fuel tank and relieve any pressure from the high pressure on the exterior — refer to your model-specific service manual for those steps. Using the floor jack with a block of wood can assist in lowering the fuel tank. Disconnect all electrical connectors, vent hoses, and high-pressure fuel lines if you can access the fuel pump assembly.
Lower The Fuel Tank
Depending on your application, you may need to lower the tank slightly before performing that step.
Nearly all motorcycles, snowmobiles, and quads will need the fuel tank removed to access the fuel pump — that means bodywork surrounding the area will most likely need to be removed. It’s also easiest to manage with the tank drained of all fuel. All the same steps apply here: Disconnect electrical connectors, vent hoses, and fuel lines from the fuel pump assembly.
With the tank lowered or removed, you’ll have clear access to the retaining ring, which secures the fuel pump assembly to your tank. Be sure to clean the ring’s surrounding area so debris or contaminants are not introduced to the tank. Also, inspect the interior of the fuel tank for rust or any other pollutants and remove any settled debris.
Remove The Fuel Pump Assembly
At that point, the entire fuel pump assembly is removed, and the pump is replaced with a high-quality QFS unit. It’s wise to test your new QFS fuel pump with a 12V battery to confirm its operation before replacing your old unit. In addition, all O-rings need to be lubricated with petroleum grease before coupling pressure lines together. Triple-check that all hose clamps (if applicable) are tightened, as minor pressure leaks can cause the fuel pump motor to overwork and lead to premature failure.
QFS fuel pump replacement kits have everything you need to get the job done. Our catalog also offers durable O-rings, gaskets, high-pressure tubing, and all other fuel-system-related required components during this process.
Once the fuel pump assembly is thoroughly inspected and upgraded with QFS components, slide it back into place and always use a new fuel-tank gasket. These gaskets are for one-time use only.
Reinstall
Relocate the fuel tank into position, reconnect all electrical connections, high-pressure lines, and vent hoses, then cycle the ignition several times to pressurize the fuel system.
After completing those steps, you can reconnect your vehicle’s battery and cycle the ignition on/off several times to prime the fuel pump. If the fuel pump is priming and you can hear an audible whirring noise, you can finally start the engine. Once the engine is running, thoroughly inspect for fuel leaks from all fuel lines or gaskets.
While performing this kind of work on your vehicle will differ, these are the significant steps all in-tank fuel pump replacements take. As always, have your vehicle’s service manual handy to reference detailed microfiches. A trained QFS staff will assist you with any technical questions.
Want To Get Started? Give Us a Call!
Quantum Fuel System is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT. Place orders over the phone or check out our massive catalog. If you have technical questions, visit our support staff; they’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
7 Easy De-Winterizing Steps For Your Motorcycle, ATV, or Side-by-Side/UTV
Spring is right around the corner, and soon, the snow will melt, songbirds will chirp, and it’ll be time to take to the open road or trail again. After a long winter season where our motorcycles, ATVs, Side-by-Sides, and other Powersports vehicles sat parked in hibernation, we’ll need to do our due diligence and de-winterize them before pulling them out of cold storage and going for a ride.
If you followed our handy Winterizing 101 guide, then you’re ahead of the curve. For everyone else, we’ll cover how to get your machine running like a top in a few easy steps.
Of course, de-winterizing is made that much easier if we’ve all been astute owners and winterized our beloved toys. The reality is de-winterizing follows the same protocols that any rider or driver should take to prepare their vehicle’s roadworthiness after sitting under the covers for an extended time. You can utilize these procedures when buying pre-owned bikes or cars laid up for a while.
QFS is the undisputed leader in OE replacement fuel system parts, designed to outperform and outlast any OEM component. We stand behind our products, and a hassle-free lifetime guarantee warranty backs any QFS-branded part.
Things like fuel pumps, fuel filters, inlet strainers, fuel pressure regulators, O-rings can break down over time, especially when a vehicle isn’t being run regularly. Regardless of how well we maintain our vehicles, any fuel system needs to be inspected, cared for, and serviced. QFS offers everything you’ll need to complete the job in our massive catalog.
While this isn’t a time-consuming process, you’ll want to dedicate a few hours to complete de-winterizing like a pro.
Detective Work: Grab Some Shop Rags and Get on with the Inspections
Always start with the easy stuff. While it seems like you’ll only be spending time giving everything a spit shine, this step is one of the most crucial. Begin by pulling fairings and wiping all the critical components of your vehicle down. Keenly inspect for any trouble spots.
Over a long winter or storage period, cracks can form in rubber cooling hoses, seals could have failed, allowing fluids to weep or leak, and unnoticed wear and tear can be spotted before it becomes a potential hazard.
The tell-tale sign of a leak will be drips of fluid beneath or dribbling down various components. Take special care when wiping down, paying extra attention to suspension and engine components. Likewise, inspect your entire braking system by starting at the master cylinder and working your way down to the calipers or drums.
For anything with an advanced ABS, you might not be able to do that quickly, but run a rag over every major connection to make sure they’re fastened properly and not leaking.
Critter Check
Curious critters enjoy nesting in vehicles during the winter. So, break out a flashlight and peek into every nook and cranny. We always recommend plugging exhaust outlets when storing any vehicle, so be sure to go through and remove all those protection bits.
Sound-damping materials inside bodywork, mufflers, and airboxes serve as 5-star accommodations for any rodent. You’ll need to ensure no animals or insect colonies now call your machine home. This is a crucial step as a favorite pastime for rodents is chewing into wiring harnesses, which will cause numerous headaches down the road.
Once again, if you’ve been a diligent owner, you’ve already restricted access for our furry friends. You’ll need to reverse the process and be well on your way to your next ride or drive.
Get Charged Up
Batteries can be fickle. They don’t like being stored in the cold or sitting around unused for extended periods. This is valid for old-school lead-acid or lightweight lithium-ion types. The winter months mean you’re combining its two most minor factor activities, and the only workaround is to maintain proper voltage with a battery tender.
If you didn’t, don’t fret! Just pop it on a charger; if it’s not too far gone, it’ll be ready for action soon enough.
Fluid Levels, Lubricants, and Air Filters
It is imperative to thoroughly check and confirm that all your vehicle’s fluid and lubricants are at their proper levels. Beyond that, consider the age of coolant, engine/transmission oils, and brake fluid. Even if you haven’t achieved mileage that would warrant a change typically, refreshing these fluids yearly isn’t a bad habit. This can be done at the start of your riding season.
Brake fluid is hydroscopic and absorbs moisture, which lowers its efficacy over time. If your brake reservoir looks brown instead of a golden hue, then it’s time to refresh it.
On the same note, air filters must be regularly checked, cleaned, and reoiled to ensure they capture particulates. Once again, doing this at least once a year is a good practice, even if you haven’t racked up miles.
Cleaning and lubricating your vehicle’s chain final drive will help prevent premature rusting. Our Winterizing 101 guide explained that parking a motorcycle or ATV with a thoroughly lubricated chain will prevent rust and keep the o-rings in good health. For those that didn’t, now is the time to break out those brushes. Make that chain shine, and give it a good coat of lubricant.
The Right Rubber
Tires age naturally. While properly kept tires can last for several years, those living in icy environments will want to inspect their tires for any cracking thoroughly. In some cases, a tire can be adversely affected by freezing temperatures. The tire can become brittle and break down.
If you see any signs of cracking due to age or cold temperatures, it’s time to replace those rubbery hoops.
What’s Inside Your Tank?
When prepping your vehicle for winterization or long-term storage, you have two fuel-related choices: Drain the tank or add a fuel stabilizer. Those that choose fuel stabilizers can turn the key, start the engine, and burn through what they have available.
However, if you leave fuel in your tank for several months, it is wise to drain the tank and replace it with fresh gas. Fuel varnish and fuel separation can occur, which will cause poor engine performance or gunk up critical components.
It’s also a good idea to peek inside the fuel tank with a flashlight and inspect if your filters are in decent health. Make sure no debris has accumulated inside the tank. Remember, QFS has fuel pumps, strainers, and filters ready for nearly every make and model on the market.
Fire It Up!
Ah, you’ve checked all the fluids, oils, and lubricants or changed them. You’ve gone over every inch of your motorcycle, ATV, or Side-by-Side and made sure that everything is in working order. The battery is charged, there’s fuel in the tank, and you’re ready to go!
Once you’ve gone through this essential de-winterization checklist, it’s time to go for a decent ride or drive to get the engine up to proper operating temperature. Simply starting an engine and idling for a bit won’t do, as moisture from the air inside your engine’s crankcase will create condensation. To avoid that issue, bring your vehicle’s engine up to the full operating temperature, where it will evaporate.
Pulling a motorcycle, ATV, or Side-by-Side/UTV out of storage for the first time also requires care for both rider and machine. It’s been months since you last rode, so take things slow and get back into the swing of things. Likewise, hammering an engine immediately isn’t the best way to treat anything.
Need New Fuel System Parts to Help You De-winterize? We’ve Got You Covered!
Quantum Fuel Systems is open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. PT. Our helpful staff can take your order over the phone or place an order via our extensive catalog. Be sure to use our support page for any detailed technical questions, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
QFS to Make Inaugural Appearance at 2023 AIMExpo Powersports Tradeshow
February 1, 2023 (Ventura, CA) – QFS will be exhibiting at this year’s American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo). Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center February 15-17, AIMExpo . Stationed at booth #2053 in the South Hall Upper Level, QFS will display some of its top products for Powersports applications. Knowledgeable staff will be on-site to answer questions and discuss partnership opportunities.
QFS CEO, Megan Stander, is excited about the ability to meet and connect with other industry colleagues at AIMExpo. She is participating with her team, “we’ve exhibited at a number of smaller expos and events in the past but we’re taking the next step to engage with our industry and grow our network.”
Founded in Ventura, California in 1999, QFS has become the industry leader in powersports fuel system parts. What started out as a small automotive shop has now evolved into a 20,000 sq/ft manufacturing and distribution facility. QFS provides direct-fit OEM replacement fuel pumps and assemblies for Powersports vehicles and high-performance fuel systems for Automotive applications. Boasting the industry’s most comprehensive range of fitment data, QFS is trusted by over 2,200 dealers & distributors around the world.
The Powersports industry’s largest suppliers such as Tucker Rocky and WPS work with QFS to stock and distribute fuel pumps, fuel assemblies, strainers, fuel pressure regulators, and other fuel system small parts.
Call, email, or meet the QFS sales team at AIMExpo to learn more about product distribution and dealer programs.
Most riders take the winter off from riding. On the flip side, there are those that live for winter riding. This special breed takes advantage of the reduced trail traffic with the splendor that the snow and cold can bring. If you want to load up your dirt bike, ATV/UTV, or snowmobile to go for a winter ride, you need to be safe doing it. Here are 4 essential tips for staying safe on your next winter ride.
Inspect Your Vehicle Before You Get To The Snow
Breaking down in the snow and cold is a terrible situation. Before you leave the house give everything a discerning inspection. Check that everything is tightened correctly, your controls function as they should, and your brakes stop your ride.
If you plan to change tires to a more aggressive off-road tire, that should be done before you load up. If you have a snow machine that uses a drive belt, it should be checked and changed as needed. All fluids should be inspected topped off if necessary.
Keep Warm While Riding
As much fun as snow and cold can offer, you need to be cautious of the effects of cold on your body. The cold will make you tired, it will reduce your dexterity, and reduce your mental concentration. Any of those conditions can make an afternoon ride uncomfortable. Stacking multiple conditions together can make a pleasure ride dangerous very quickly.
The best way to stay warm is through layers of clothing covering every square inch of skin. Leave nothing exposed. Every zipper should have a flap that closes over it to avoid water and wind penetration. Your helmet should include eye protection with a visor or goggles, and your choice shouldn’t fog under any condition.
The last thing to remember is that your extremities (i.e., hands and feet) will be the first body parts to be cold. Cold hands mean you can’t feel or use the controls well. At that point it’s time to stop riding to warm up.
You can add heated handlebars and a heated seat to provide warmth to extend your riding sessions. You can also carry a small hand warmer that will help bring the color back to your fingers when you stop riding.
Trail Safety is Paramount
If you’re used to riding off-road in the warm dry conditions, you should be accustomed to following trail safety procedures. One thing to keep in mind is snow and ice can hide obstacles and add an extra level of danger.
A known trail can have extra branches under the snow. A frozen creek can become too slippery to cross safely. Submerging anything in water just above freezing temperatures can end your day of riding. If you venture off a known trail, be aware that snow depth can be deceptive. Larger obstacles like stumps can hide in plain sight.
One of the best parts of riding is going out with friends on a group ride. Riding on or off-road, the same rules apply for spacing between each participant. Stagger your riding lines as best as possible and keep plenty of distance between each rider for extra stopping distance in slick conditions.
Visibility can also be limited around corners and in inclement weather conditions, so be prepared to slow down or stop as conditions change. Remember the number one rule of riding in a group: ride at your own pace. More experienced riders should be at the front, while slower or less experienced riders should be behind the faster riders.
Stop or slow frequently to ensure all group members are still on the ride together.
Lastly, you may want to carry a small first-aid kit just in case anything happens. The mentioned warming items (hand heaters, etc.) should be included, but a standard kit with bandages and antiseptic spray can be taken along in case of a medical emergency.
Bring Tools in Case of Emergencies
Your pre-ride inspection should prevent a breakdown from a missed maintenance issue, however, sometimes an unexpected event off-road can lead to a breakdown on the trail. It’s times like this that you’ll be happy you have some tools available for emergencies.
The type of vehicle you’re on may influence how many tools you carry. A snow machine, UTV, or ATV may have enough spare room to carry a complete tool kit, flares, extra warming gear, and more. A dirt bike with limited bodywork may offer little space to carry extra parts and tools. Handlebar packs, saddle bags, and other small aftermarket equipment may help take what you need to get back home.
Your minimum tools should be a small selection of sockets and a ratchet. Older American made equipment may need standard sizes, but newer equipment may use metric fasteners. Check what you have before you leave and take the necessary tools with you.
Distribute everything as best as possible amongst everyone on the ride.
Communication gear can fit into multiple categories, and there are many ways to communicate. Group riders may choose to have headset communicators that operate via Bluetooth between each group rider.
Each headset should be hands-free and waterproof. And while we’re mentioning phones, never leave home without one on the ride! They can call for help if needed, they typically have a map app to help navigate if you get lost, and they can be triangulated by authorities if you can’t find where you are.
Even if you have a smart phone on the ride, always let someone know where you are going and what time to expect you back. If you don’t get back at the designated time, your contact can check in on you or notify additional help to be on the lookout.
QFS Is Here To Help!
Winter off-road riding can be a challenge, but also an immense reward with different terrain to cover. Once you’re home safely, be sure to check over your equipment before putting it back in storage.
Give it a quick wash to remove and salts or conders brought home in the snow or ice. Add stabilizer to the fuel tank and connect a battery tender / charger to keep the battery at full charge.
If you need to replace any fuel components after a ride, you can order a better designed replacement pump, complete assembly, or just the missing pieces you need for an upgrade from Quantum Fuel Systems, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT, over the phone or browse our extensive catalog. Be sure to contact us via our support page for any detailed technical questions, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
For over 15 years, Quantum Fuel Systems has been manufacturing and distributing fuel system components for OEM and performance applications. Our mission is to manufacture fuel systems that are centered around longevity, accurate flow data, and hassle-free direct fitment.
Be sure to snap a few pictures during and after the winter ride, or if you are a video creator, send us a link to your video on our‘Submit Your Ride’page. We love to see what you’re working on, riding, and hear about your experience!
