Why is there sand in my fuel pump????

[blueroo]

So I decided to check my fuel filter today. It's fine. But there's a lot of waht looks like sand in the fuel pump surrounding the filter area.

Is there a special procedure or something I should follow to clean it or can I put a blue shop towel (think paper towel, but stronger) in the fuel pump to absorb the little bit of fuel left and get the sand out or do I need to do something else?

 

[The Plankster Prankster]

first, the sand is there because somebody ran the vehicle for some time without a filter before the pump. as of the 80's, te factory only installed a filter right at the carb, but its just as necessary to protect your pump with a filter

as for cleaning it out, your method may work, but i would remove it from the engine and spray it out with Brakekleen or carb cleaner or something, and maybe an air hose

 

[Anonymous]

If you haven't already, you may want to replace your tank and sending unit.

 

[ludwig]

I'm thinking you got some gasoline directly from Alberta.