Q1:    Isn't the Bosch -044 overkill for a lift pump?

A1:    In most cases, yes.  However there are many compelling reasons to use it:

Reliability:  It's an OEM-spec pump, with a long history of extremely low failure rates  Flow:  300+ LHP is sufficient to support most pressure pump setups
Cost:  Not cheap, but reasonable
Package:  Fairly compact dimensions, with a 60mm diameter and 196mm length

There is no alternative that satisfies all these requirements.

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Q2:    Can I use a different pump?

A2:    No.  The system is designed around the dimensions of the -044.

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Q3:    Do I need an external pump in addition to the IST?

A3:    It depends on the model.  If the IST only accommodates one pump, that pump is the lift pump, and you will need an external pump.  If the IST is designed for two or more pumps, an external pump is not required.

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Q4:    How much HP can the IST support?

A4:    This is dependent upon the specific fuel consumption of the application.  But as a general guideline, it will support between 750 and 1000 Flywheel HP on gasoline, with a Turbo Rotary engine being closer to 750 HP and a NA Piston engine being closer to 1000 HP. 

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Q5:    If the fuel level in the tank is low, and fuel sloshes away from the pickup, how long will the reservoir in the IST allow me to run?

A5:    At 500 Flyweel HP, a 10" tall IST will provide a Turbo Rotary (worst case) approximately 28 seconds of fuel.  At approximately 22 seconds, the low level fault will trigger.

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Q6:    What maintenance is required?

A6:    Under normal operation, the system is maintenance free.  The pump is an OEM automotive unit that should provide a vehicle lifetime of troube-free service.  The filter sock is also an OEM part that provides a large surface area to resist clogging from tank sediment.  All components are made of durable, corrosion-resistant materials.

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Q7:    How do I know if the system malfunctions?

A7:    The system is not overly complex, and uses the highest quality parts, so a malfunction is highly unlikely.  Nontheless, a Fuel Level Switch is incorporated into the system to warn of impending supply issues.  This signal can be configured by the installer to perform various functions, including lowering of boost levels to protect the engine from lean conditions.

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Q8:    If my pressure pump(s) can outflow the Bosch -044, won't it (they) drain the IST?

A8:    Not necessarily.  In a return-style system, fuel that isn't consumed by the engine is returned to the IST.  Therefore, the IST only needs to supply fuel at a rate that matches the consumption of the engine.  The IST can support engines that use up to 300 LPH.

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Q9:    Is a filter required before the pressure pump(s)?

A9:    It depends on the pump(s).  The fuel is filtered through a 60 micron "sock" before entering the reservoir, so the fuel in the IST is already "clean".  Many pumps, such as the Bosch -044, contain an internal filter before the pumping mechanism.  For those pumps, a pre-filter is optional.  If your pressure pump(s) doesn't include an internal filter, a pre-filter is required.

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Q10:    Is the IST compatible with carbureted applications?

A10:    Yes.  The basic operation, fuel flow limitations, and system layout remain the same.