Ecoboost Performance Forum

Ecoboost Performance => Troubleshooting, Maintenance, TSB Articles => Troubleshooting => Topic started by: ZSHO on February 06, 2019, 11:34:22 AM

Title: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 06, 2019, 11:34:22 AM
I noticed a few days now loosing roughly 12 ounces of Methanol overnight based on the Reservoir Tank..
I also noticed a small leak on the Driveway floor this morning on the Driver's side Front bumper right under the Alky pump...
I contacted Julio over @ www.alkycontrols.com (http://www.alkycontrols.com) and reponded in matter of minutes and stated that it Could be the Pump or Hoses to/from the pump and will need to inspect it PRONTO!

He also stated that since running 100 percent Meth during the winter months to run washer fluid through it to help with the Seals.
I guess it's the pure Methanol that's hard on it in conjunction with the recent sub zero cold temps!   
The good part is I do have an extra backup Alky pump for such occasions..
Some preventative maintenance goes a long way!
I will keep yall updated on any progress and findings. Z


(https://i.imgur.com/bM4jlKkh.jpg?1)
(https://i.imgur.com/C2Bb475h.jpg)
Title: Re: METH LEAK!
Post by: SHOdded on February 06, 2019, 11:36:30 AM
That's a lotta loss!  Hope the new pump fixes the situation.
Title: Re: METH LEAK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 06, 2019, 12:03:38 PM
Quote from: SHOdded on February 06, 2019, 11:36:30 AM
That's a lotta loss!  Hope the new pump fixes the situation.
Thanks Manu! I will first need to verify the exact location of the source and proceed from there. Z
Title: Re: METH LEAK!
Post by: StealBlueSho on February 06, 2019, 02:56:23 PM
Thats scary! At least it is leaking in an area with no ignition source. Hopefully you can find the leak pretty easily.. There are only a couple places it could be leaking from in that area.

Maybe time to ditch the meth and get an IC? ;-)
Title: Re: METH LEAK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 06, 2019, 05:39:47 PM
Quote from: StealBlueSho on February 06, 2019, 02:56:23 PM
Thats scary! At least it is leaking in an area with no ignition source. Hopefully you can find the leak pretty easily.. There are only a couple places it could be leaking from in that area.

Maybe time to ditch the meth and get an IC? ;-)
Progressive kit in the works soon. Z
Title: Re: METH LEAK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 06, 2019, 06:07:09 PM
The pump still works even with the leak,but looks like its coming from the Head AFAIK!
I ordered some PTFE PASTE for the Threads and will tackle this soon.
Thanks for the many replies.  Z

(https://i.imgur.com/4VfmfJfh.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/AOiyDh7h.jpg)

https://www.amazon.com/Permatex-80632-Thread-Sealant-PTFE/dp/B000HBNTGY/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1549493803&sr=1-1&keywords=PTFE+Paste (https://www.amazon.com/Permatex-80632-Thread-Sealant-%3Cbr%20/%3EPTFE/dp/B000HBNTGY/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1549493803&sr=1-1&keywords=PTFE+Paste)
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 12, 2019, 06:51:49 PM
FYI- Quick update! I'm currently seeking an alternative in removing the Alky Pump without having to remove the entire Front bumper assembly due to the cold weather and snow fall Today while also receiving some PTFE PASTE Today for the Threads in the process...

Big Thanks to Julio @ www.Alkycontrol.com (http://www.alkycontrol.com) and Jake from LMS for their
continuous help and Prompt support .. :)

Still at Preliminary stages but will need to Confirm PRIOR!

If you have access to the Head of the Alky Pump and lines,through the wheel well and pull back the liner you could just swap the Heads.
To do this all you do is remove the 3 torx screws that you can't touch their bottoms on the head of the pump. This allows the Head to separate from motor for an overall much easier swap alternative without having to remove the entire pump
assembly kit and hose lines considering the leak is coming from the Pump (seal) Head.

I will keep you updated on the Progress.  Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: StealBlueSho on February 12, 2019, 06:55:24 PM
Z, what is in that second picture? Looks like a control unit of some sort? My kit did not have anything that looked like that.
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: bpd1151 on February 12, 2019, 06:58:08 PM
I wouldn't be reliant on that PTFE paste.

It will very likely FAIL.

Been there, done that.

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 12, 2019, 07:34:20 PM
Quote from: StealBlueSho on February 12, 2019, 06:55:24 PM
Z, what is in that second picture? Looks like a control unit of some sort? My kit did not have anything that looked like that.
I believe a Solenoid. Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: StealBlueSho on February 12, 2019, 07:35:38 PM
Quote from: ZSHO on February 12, 2019, 07:34:20 PM
Quote from: StealBlueSho on February 12, 2019, 06:55:24 PM
Z, what is in that second picture? Looks like a control unit of some sort? My kit did not have anything that looked like that.
Solenoid. Z

Interesting.. must be needed for the DPM setup.
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 12, 2019, 07:36:05 PM
Quote from: bpd1151 on February 12, 2019, 06:58:08 PM
I wouldn't be reliant on that PTFE paste.

It will very likely FAIL.

Been there, done that.

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
I know the white plumbers tape is ideal for Brass fittings!
But Directly from Julio Don
Wed, Feb 6, 5:02 PM (6 days ago)
New pump, use PTFE paste on threads. Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: bpd1151 on February 12, 2019, 07:38:12 PM
I understand.

But I assure you, you'll end up with a leak once again.

Again, been there, done that.

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: StealBlueSho on February 12, 2019, 07:40:01 PM
I used plumbers tape on my connections, the paste leaked... the tape worked great. Just my .02 cents...
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 12, 2019, 07:42:44 PM
Quote from: bpd1151 on February 12, 2019, 07:38:12 PM
I understand.

But I assure you, you'll end up with a leak once again.

Again, been there, done that.

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Thanks again! I know the fittings also come pre-fitted with white plumbers tape IIRC! Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 14, 2019, 02:42:22 PM
I'm in the finishing touches and it seems the REDHEAD is Back in Full Boost Mode! I will follow Up once complete shortly with details and all. Z 

   

(https://i.imgur.com/KEALeFoh.jpg)
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on February 14, 2019, 06:35:08 PM
I guess after much TRIAL and ERROR Found the Front Bumper (Under Cover) to be Ideal in order to remove the ALKY Meth Pump and NOT through the Wheel well liner with no access to the Pump Bracket Bolts.

FYI- I did not have to remove the Front bumper cover for INSTALL.

PICS of the Under Cover below  and screws that had to be removed PRIOR.

(https://i.imgur.com/GCI3dBym.jpg)

I also chose to change the whole pump assembly and not to swap just the Head of the pump unit as mentioned previously which ultimately would of saved me some time for an easier alternate DIY..

Here's a PIC of the previous Alky Methanol Pump and a view from the Under cover when removed..

(https://i.imgur.com/KEALeFoh.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/4VfmfJfh.jpg)

I did end up using some White Plumbers Tape for the Threads and a small Tab of  PTFE Paste on the only the Fittings as shown on below PICS.

I removed the lines (hoses) and fittings while cleaning and let soaked the Brass fittings with some WD-40 Lubricant in order to remove the excess rust and corrosion Buildup..

Here are some PICS of the new ALKY METH PUMP INSTALLED..

(https://i.imgur.com/YseUDHAh.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/clEzwUth.jpg?1)

(https://i.imgur.com/3SmzxAYh.jpg?1)

So far working as designed with no leaks in sight and any questions you may have feel free to ask!   :yeah:

It took me roughly a few hours to complete the install..

I will be sending the old Alky Meth pump back to Julio for a rebuild @ www.Alkycontrols.com (http://www.alkycontrols.com) . Z  :)
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: 802SHO on February 14, 2019, 06:41:19 PM
Nice job!  Back in full form!
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: StealBlueSho on February 14, 2019, 06:44:00 PM
And the wind whispers "Ethanol.... intercooler..... "....

Nicely done!
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on March 02, 2020, 09:50:37 AM
It has been roughly a year since having my Alky meth pump kit installed.. The other day had no alternative but to take the vehicle to an auto car wash due to unexpected salt on the roads which I seldom do..

Today noticed a small puddle right under the front driver's side bumper and verified that the Alky pump is leaking once again. 
I guess lesson learned is To avoid Auto car washes at all costs,especially during cold winter freezing temps.  :(
I hope this helps someone out in the very near future. Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: SHOdded on March 02, 2020, 10:05:22 AM
Argh!
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: StealBlueSho on March 02, 2020, 02:09:06 PM
Quote from: ZSHO on March 02, 2020, 09:50:37 AM
It has been roughly a year since having my Alky meth pump kit installed.. The other day had no choice but to take the vehicle to an auto car wash due to unexpected salt on the roads which I seldom do..

Today noticed a small puddle right under the front driver's side bumper and verified that the Alky pump is leaking once again!   
I guess lesson learned is To avoid Auto car washes at all costs,especially during cold winter freezing temps.  :(
I hope this helps someone out in the very near future. Z

Interesting... maybe time to change location of the pump?
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on March 02, 2020, 03:56:23 PM
Quote from: StealBlueSHO on March 02, 2020, 02:09:06 PM
Quote from: ZSHO on March 02, 2020, 09:50:37 AM
It has been roughly a year since having my Alky meth pump kit installed.. The other day had no choice but to take the vehicle to an auto car wash due to unexpected salt on the roads which I seldom do..

Today noticed a small puddle right under the front driver's side bumper and verified that the Alky pump is leaking once again!   
I guess lesson learned is To avoid Auto car washes at all costs,especially during cold winter freezing temps.  :(
I hope this helps someone out in the very near future. Z

Interesting... maybe time to change location of the pump?
Original Intention was to seal up the exposed area against water intrusion and the elements.. Dunno @ the moment.Thanks SBS. Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: lamrith on March 02, 2020, 06:22:26 PM
Any idea what it is about the auto wash that caused the leak?  The pump is in an area that should be protected from the brush/cloth and sprayers for the most part?

Bummer she is down again, Sorry to hear it Z.
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on March 02, 2020, 06:49:41 PM
Quote from: lamrith on March 02, 2020, 06:22:26 PM
Any idea what it is about the auto wash that caused the leak?  The pump is in an area that should be protected from the brush/cloth and sprayers for the most part?

Bummer she is down again, Sorry to hear it Z.
There is ONE section in that vicinity that is susceptible to water intrusion and my guess is the combo of the freezing temps and the under-carriage auto wash was not welcoming. Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: bamsho on March 02, 2020, 07:52:00 PM
Z is the pump itself leaking or at the fittings
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on March 03, 2020, 06:22:06 AM
Quote from: bamsho on March 02, 2020, 07:52:00 PM
Z is the pump itself leaking or at the fittings
Still need to take the internal gizzards apart. :D It's drip drip @ the moment as seen below. Thanks Brian. Z


(https://i.imgur.com/pqFLh21h.jpg)
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on March 03, 2020, 08:47:02 AM
I was very fortunate enough a couple of days ago to have the Failsafe feature kick in once it went into limp mode briefly followed by the flashing red led light on the Dash..
I will report back with any initial updates once removed..
Thanks everyone and be well. Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: bamsho on March 03, 2020, 03:56:57 PM
Wow, I didn't realize they mounted your pump that low, I mounted mine higher and towards the inner fender more.
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ddlopes on March 03, 2020, 04:08:26 PM
I installed my pump on the passenger side in the wheel well. I just bought some thin metal plates and make it into a shelf and attached it to the frame rail. I can service it without removing the bumper. I could take more pics if you'd like. I've since went to all braided lines with an fittings.
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on March 10, 2020, 09:41:49 AM
I unfortunately haven't had time to disassemble the Alky pump,but in the meantime loaded an old custom V8-1lb boost tune for the time being.. It feels like I'm hauling a trailer hitch and guess I was spoiled with the newly fond power. Z
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: bamsho on March 10, 2020, 12:23:34 PM
Bummer Z, you will getting it fixed soon.
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on June 04, 2020, 06:49:59 PM
New Methanol Filter and 90 degree elbows to Alky pump arrived today. Hopefully can finally complete long awaited install. Z 

https://www.alkycontrol.com/shop
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: StealBlueSho on June 04, 2020, 07:13:59 PM
Quote from: ZSHO on June 04, 2020, 06:49:59 PM
New Methanol Filter and 90 degree elbows to Alky pump arrived today. Hopefully can finally complete long awaited install. Z 

https://www.alkycontrol.com/shop
Which controller did they use in your car? I'm curious as they didn't use an Alky controller in a local SHO's DPM car...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: 802SHO on June 05, 2020, 05:17:16 AM
My pump is up higher.  I had to relocate the horn off to the side.  This is my second pump.  Installed at the end of the 2 year mark.  As mentioned after 2 years its recommended to rebuild or install a new pump.  No leaks with old pump or new pump.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200605/568788ae30b257711fc1b7ed6c4a191a.jpg)

Sent from my LM-G710VM using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Meth leaK!
Post by: ZSHO on June 05, 2020, 06:42:53 AM
Quote from: StealBlueSHO on June 04, 2020, 07:13:59 PM
Quote from: ZSHO on June 04, 2020, 06:49:59 PM
New Methanol Filter and 90 degree elbows to Alky pump arrived today. Hopefully can finally complete long awaited install. Z 

https://www.alkycontrol.com/shop
Which controller did they use in your car? I'm curious as they didn't use an Alky controller in a local SHO's DPM car...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Alky controller IIRC! It's NoT a Progressive controller found on newer setups. Z
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