Fuel Rail - Differences

#1

While putting a new motor together I discovered that there are two different fuel rails for the M20. After doing various searches I’ve come up empty. Any words of wisdom from the SE30 Forum veterans?

The difference is limited to where the fuel enters the rail (see attached). My car is currently setup like the rusty fuel rail. Before I spend a bunch of time reconditioning the rusty one, I wanted to see if one was better than the other? I could see where having the fuel enter the front of the rail would be better for placement of an inline fuel pressure gauge. Beyond that I’m unsure as to why they made this change?

[URL=http://s819.photobucket.com/user/SpeedSmith47/media/fr_1.jpg.html][/URL]

[URL=http://s819.photobucket.com/user/SpeedSmith47/media/fr_3.jpg.html][/URL]

[URL=http://s819.photobucket.com/user/SpeedSmith47/media/fr_2.jpg.html][/URL]

#2

I think it is just early vs late cars, I.e. the 9/87 switch of all the underhood plumbing.

#3

Makes sense. The fuel rail with the inlet at the rear is from an 87 intake that I had laying around. It was in considerably better shape than what came with the donor which was out of a 91 vert.

#4

[quote=“ctbimmer” post=73235]I think it is just early vs late cars, I.e. the 9/87 switch of all the underhood plumbing.[/quote] +1
It was either early vs. late or e vs. i. Something like that. Doesn’t make any functional difference…just have to route your fuel line differently.

#5

I think the attachment hardware is also different, i.e. that fixes the rail to the intake, so probably want to use all from one era or the other. I remember Patton telling me that something was different/easier on the earlier cars, but don’t recall the specifics.

#6

Thanks Guys! The hardware that is used to bolt the rail to the intake is the same. The wiring harness is different, the older version is more exposed, whereas the newer version has a molded plastic loom. I have the newer style on the pre-existing motor. I’ll swap them over together to ensure it all matches up. Appreciate it the assist.