Firstfives.org

Is there an alternative to the fuel pump under the car for these vehicles? Mine just decided to blow a seam, of course right after a full tank of gas. all the clamps and hoses are fresh bmw spec, and gas spews right out the side of the pump housing, what looks like a crimped on end. Seems like a very weak design. I was thinking along the lines of a holley pump. Thanks for any direction and input, Jamie

Jamie, I changed mine fuel pump some years ago and I placed it at the same place. But I removed the in-tank filter (at the bottom of the fuel sender unit, it was very clogged and worn) and placed a big fuel filter before the pump (it also acts like a additional fuel container) and after the fuel lines under the car - another big filter in the engine compartment - to preserve the fuel injectors. The fuel pump also has a thin wire net for bigger particles...

I'm almost sure - the original BOSCH pumps have no seams.
Something more - there is a tight transparent plastic foil over the aluminum housing - to prevent from dirt, corrosion and light particle hits.

Anyway - you can search for an in-tank pump (some of the e12 or e28 were made with two pumps) or place the new pump in some dry and clean place, but in every case it is very desirably that the pump and the input fuel hose is placed just a little lower than the lowest level of the fuel in the tank. You understand it - this will guarantee the "wet" work of the pump.

Yeah I would just stock with a new OE Bosch unit. I don't really think they have longevity/ durability issues that are any worse than anything else I've seen.

autopartswarehouse.com or rockauto.com.

Bosch pumps must go for thirty years because I have them.

Do check all the fuel lines. They don't last thirty years. And disconnect the battery when fooling around with fuel.

Thanks for all the responses. Part of why I like this sight. My pump looks like a bosch unit. I'll know when I get the replacement and swap it out. Should be here next week, so I know what I'll be doing next weekend! I did replace all the fuel lines and clamps recently, but will still give them a good critical look. Thanks again, Jamie

I've seen a pump leak at the seal for the electrical connection, but never otherwise. I've also had a filter fail where the end was crimped on. But normally both are very reliable. I'd just get a used one if I was you, they very rarely fail and are interchangable thru E23s, 24s, 28s and well into E30s, but not all of the last.