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efi fuel return regulator

broncobusted

Full Member
Joined
Aug 12, 2013
Messages
247
Hello all I have a question About this regulator I was speaking with a rep from one of the site vendors about their system and was told I would need a return line fuel regulator which they don't carry although on the product literature it says no fuel return line necessary. If I do need one can anyone tell me where I can get and what is the pressure setting. I will be changing the intake gas tank and throttle body with this kit. Any answers are appreciated.
Thanks
Dave
 

DirtDonk

Contributor
Bronco Guru
Joined
Nov 3, 2003
Messages
49,445
For what pressure rating, we'll need to know the type of EFI and what it's manufacturer recommends.
While most TBI type setups say they can be run without a return, most indicate that a return setup would be beneficial in at least some ways.
I'm surprised that they don't just include one, but I'm sure to save on the initial cost and to give those few that do a returnless system the benefit of that.

I think we should carry regulators for this reason. Don't think we have any yet, but not sure if anyone is working on it or not.

Oh, and what is your engine setup like? In other words, going down the usual checklist, do you think you can run a returnless system? Or would a return setup be more indicated?

Good luck.

Paul
 

DirtDonk

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Oh, and seeing where you live (New Mexico) I would think a return line would be a big benefit.
Not sure what type of gas you all are getting these days, but with the potential for high heat and (if you go out adventurin') high altitude, the return system would seem to be better.

Paul
 
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broncobusted

broncobusted

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Aug 12, 2013
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Ok thank you Paul I'm glad you answered because the one I want is the wh msd system and that makes sense now about the return I am running the original 302 and will be replacing the intake as I have the original two barrel and also the 23 gallon tank upgrade with all parts from you guys. I think I should run the return and if you have any idea where I could get the return pressure reducing valve I would appreciate the info.
Thank you
 

jw0747

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Nov 22, 2006
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San Antonio, TX
If the EFI mfg says in its literature that a return line is not necessary then why would you want to install one? Add some extra crap which you don't need. Is there such a thing as a return line fuel pressure regulator? Never heard of one.
 

slow poke

New Member
Joined
Nov 15, 2007
Messages
62
Loc.
SF Bay Area
A return line is beneficial for several reasons. First off it tends to deliver fuel at lower temperatures since it is recirculating, and cool fuel is desirable as the engine will run better and more consistantly. Secondly a return line lets the pump run at lower pressure typically and when the demand for lots of fuel is desired, the pump can respond faster. Usually more important with high HP motors....or low volume pumps. Low pressure=high flow....high pressure= lower flow.

Many fuel pressure regulators have return lines built in. the stock Ford fuel rails have a return line built in and many aftermarket regulators have a return port. There should be no reason for two fuel pressure regulators.
 

ntsqd

heratic car camper
Joined
Jan 30, 2005
Messages
3,922
Loc.
Upper SoKA
Some late model EFI's use a "dead-head" or returnless fuel supply system. No idea about the MSD system. Pretty much any EFI intended aftermarket FPR will have a return port. Just need to know if high pressure (SEFI etc.) or low pressure (TBI type systems usually).

One of my vehicles runs a return system with a carb as a way of dealing with vapor lock, and the Bronc-up is *just* about there too.
 

DirtDonk

Contributor
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Messages
49,445
Here too. Both my Bronco and F350 had carbs and return systems.

If the EFI mfg says in its literature that a return line is not necessary then why would you want to install one?

You're right about adding more complication, but the manufacturer in this case (MSD) does NOT recommend against one. They simply give you a test to answer multiple questions to see if it's more appropriate for your setup or not. This in order to simplify for those that truly don't "need" one.
But the questions are pretty basic, and in most cases you will find that they really are recommending one for you. In broncobusted's case, I can almost guarantee that he's got a "YES" mark in enough boxes for them to recommend a return system.
And if on the fence about one in any particular setup, why would you not go to the extra trouble if it would help in some cases. Even if only potentially.


Is there such a thing as a return line fuel pressure regulator? Never heard of one.

Every OE pressure regulator that I've seen is in the return section of the fuel lines. At least for our sake, we can talk about the Ford 5.0/5.8 setups prior to the Explorer returnless computer. Every pressure regulator is on the output of the fuel-rail, which essentially puts it in the return line.
I don't think anybody calls it a return line regulator, as opposed to simply a pressure regulator. But that's what it is.

Every simple FPR that I know of from the aftermarket (above the most inexpensive minimal carburetor rated ones) has a return port available. Which does not necessarily make it a "return line regulator" since it's for all intents and purposes still in the input section of the fuel system.
But if you're adding an aftermarket regulator to an EFI setup with fuel rails or a return port in the EFI (most?) then it's mounted to the output side, so still effectively in the return system.

Paul
 
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broncobusted

broncobusted

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Aug 12, 2013
Messages
247
Thanks for all the response I appreciate it. I guess now the only thing to do is get the stuff and get to work it will take me most of the winter to gather the necessary parts due to my "bronco budget " thanks honey lol. so I should have many questions in the spring.
Thanks again
Dave
 
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