Tiny metal shavings on the small plastic filter

[artemisclark]

I would like to ask a question regarding tiny metal shavings on the small plastic filter, inside the intake of my petrol pump on my 1971 minor 1000, I don't know if this is normal or not, has anyone seen this before and what exactly makes this happen?

[svenedin]

It’s not “normal”. Has your car had a new fuel tank recently? I suspect it is swarf from the manufacturing process. Usually the filter catches small rusty particles from the tank. I’d suggest you clean your filter, replace and keep an eye on it. If concerned you could drain your fuel tank from the drain plug underneath, filter the fuel and replace. Remember petrol floats on water so when draining the tank safely dispose of the first pint or so of fuel.

When I had a new tank the filter caught small particles of paint. I wished the tank had been rinsed out before fitting. The filter did its job but some of the muck did make it to the float bowl (which I also cleaned out).

Stephen

[myoldjalopy]

If you mean little black granuals like coffee grounds then it is fairly typical and is exactly what the filter is there for. An old tank will have at least some crud in it accumulated over the years. Probably just little particles of rust. As 'svenedin' advises, wash the filter out, replace and check it again next service, unless something happens in the meantime.

[svenedin]

Also to say that since it is easier to clean out the fuel pump filter with the pump off the car, you can also give the pump a rinse through with carburettor cleaner with the filter removed prior to reinstallation. The filter tends to discolour due to the fuel which is of no consequence but if there are any holes in the mesh replace it. Parts are available from Burlen. A spare fibre washer is useful in case the old one leaks after being disturbed.

Stephen