Is gas not a conductor?

[Ted K.]

I am replacing the fuel pump in 1982 Vette. The pump is in the fuel tank. The hot wire and ground wire will become submerged in the fuel when the tank is filled up. Why would this not blow a fuse or at least not let the electric pump function.
Confused.

[Thomas S.]

Re: Is gas not a conductor?

The pumping components (diaphragm or impeller) are electrically isolated from the motor/solenoid. No different than a electric water-pump that has a motor connected to an impeller.

[Ted K.]

Re: Is gas not a conductor?

I was thinking more of the connections that are submerged in the fuel than the pump itself.

[Thomas S.]

Re: Is gas not a conductor?

The connector used have gaskets that prevent fuel from coming in contact with the electrical contacts similar to those used in trailer connections except using materials that are resistant to gas and solvents.

Gasoline is actually not a good conductor. If you add ethanol to it the conductivity increases but not appreciable.

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/...fig1_255001707