Fuel Pressure Regulator: Description and Operation

Fuel Pressure Regulator, Vacuum Hose Removed:

PURPOSE
The Fuel Pressure Regulator maintains constant pressure at the injector nozzles.

Fuel Pressure Regulator (Cut-Away View):

OPERATION
Control vacuum is supplied from the intake manifold to the diaphragm which operates a pressure valve. When the engine is under very light load, the control vacuum is high, spring pressure against the regulator valve is reduced, and the fuel system is regulated at a lower pressure. When the engine is under heavy load (as in wide open throttle operation), manifold absolute pressure increases and the control vacuum is low. More spring pressure is applied to the valve and fuel system pressure is increased by the same amount as the manifold absolute pressure, to maintain a constant pressure.