DIY Jeep Wrangler $12 Fuel Check Valve

My 1997 Jeep Wrangler had a problem starting, I would have to hit the key twice to get it running. Even if I stopped for a second at 711 to get a soda. :/

The problem lies int he pump, that’s in the tank. It has a check valve that keeps fuel from draining back into the tank when the Jeep is off. But, the pump is good. So didn’t want to spend the money of replacing it, I just delt with the hard starting.

But i ended up getting sick of that! So i started a mission to make my own “in line” check valve. I went to my local Ace Hardware, and started looking at some brass fittings. I grabbed some part, went home, put it together and BABAM!!!! it works like a CHAMP!!!

This is not a fix, its just a bandaid! One day the pump will die, that’s when I will replace it.

Parts list:

• 2x – 5/16″ compression to 1/4″ npt
• 1x  – 1/4″ npt to 1/4″ npt barrel
• 1x – 1/4″ chrome ball bearing
• 1x – 1 1/2″ spring.  *must cover the ball, but not spring out when installed.
• 1x – yellow teflon pipe tape (DO NOT USE WHITE TEFLON TAPE)
• Small tubing cutter for fuel line

The ideas is NOT to have a ton of pressure on the spring and ball, you barely need any at all. You are just helping your fuel system. To much pressure on the spring and the pump wont get enough fuel to the fuel rail.

The setup is completely reversible! Simply take out the spring and ball, and use the compression fittings to link the fuel line together.

Here are the parts of the DIY check valve.

Stating of assembly. Ball bearing is already inside the brass, under the spring.

Installed in the Jeep!