Fuel tank will not prime

[RedInNC]

I have an older Savage 21 that has the primer pump on the tank but it won't seem to "push" the fuel to the carb. It will push fuel if I take the feed line off the carb, and have it lower than the bottom of the tank.

The line loops up from the bottom of the tank, behind the cylinder head and into the carb. The only way I can get it to start is to manually put some fuel into the carb (take off filter) and then it will "draw" the fuel if I keep it going long enough.

The tank isn't plugged (I've let it drain) and I was wondering if I need a new primer pump or tank. I can't seem to find one out there.

Any insights would be greatly appreciated

 

[RC Addict]

Pull the primer button and seal the hole with JB Weld. That is a primary place for an air leak. Easiest way to prime is to either take off the pressure line from the exhaust and blow into it or put your finger over the stinger and crank the engine for a couple seconds.

 

[RedInNC]

Excellent suggestion

RCAddict:

Thanks for the insights. I was wondering if there was air leaking in, but not quite sure where to start. I will give that try and see how it goes from there.

 

[RC Addict]

Keep us posted on your progress. We are here to help!

 

[gnarkill]

Most likely the plunger at the bottom of the rod that you push down on came off. There really is nothing you can do but buy a new tank if this is the case.

 

[RC Addict]

Nope, you are incorrect. You can pull the plunger and seal the hole as I described. There is even a thread on it here somewhere, and a video on YouTube.