The SVT Design & Fab vacuum pump delete kit is designed to replace the factory vacuum pump with a billet aluminum delete plug. The factory vacuum pump in the 1.6L Ecoboost engine is responsible for generating vacuum pressure that powers components like the brake booster and emissions systems.
When the leak-prone vacuum pump fails, you can lose power brakes—an issue that can make driving dangerous. By installing the vacuum pump delete kit, you remove the risk of pump failure, as it uses the engine's natural vacuum to power the brake booster, ensuring that you always have vacuum available for braking performance, even if the pump goes out.
Why Consider a Vacuum Pump Delete?
1. Improved Engine Efficiency
Removing the vacuum pump reduces parasitic drag on the engine, which allows it to work more efficiently. While the performance gains may be small, every little bit helps in the pursuit of better overall engine performance.
2. Cleaner Engine Bay
The vacuum pump delete kit removes the bulk of the factory pump and its components, giving your engine bay a cleaner, more streamlined look. Our billet aluminum delete kit not only improves functionality but also enhances the aesthetics of your engine bay.
3. Reliability and Safety
One of the most critical benefits of the vacuum pump delete kit is its ability to eliminate the risk of vacuum pump failure. In the event that your factory vacuum pump fails, the vacuum pump delete kit ensures you still have a reliable vacuum source from the engine to power the brake booster, so you won’t lose your power brakes. There is no difference in pedal feel with the vacuum pump delete kit versus stock.
4. 1.5 lbs of Weight Savings
The vacuum pump delete saves 1.5 lbs of weight over the stock system, which does not seem like much, but every ounce counts in the performance realm.
How is a Vacuum Pump Delete Done?
The installation process for the vacuum pump delete kit is relatively simple, and here’s a step-by-step guide:
Suggested Installation Steps:
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Remove the Factory Vacuum Pump: Begin by disconnecting and removing the vacuum pump and any associated components, including the oil lines and vacuum lines. Make sure to use a new OEM Ford gasket when re-installing the new vacuum pump delete. It may also be beneficial to use RTV for extra sealing protection.
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Run a Vacuum Line to the Intake Manifold: To ensure the brake booster continues to function, you’ll need to run a vacuum line to the intake manifold, after the throttle body. The 1.6L Ecoboost engine naturally pulls 20-21 inHg of vacuum, so this will be sufficient to power the brake booster.
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Splice Into the EVAP Line: On the front of the intake manifold, there is a vacuum line that goes to the EVAP purge valve. You can splice into this line above the throttle body to create a vacuum source for the brake booster.
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Install a Check Valve: To prevent boost from reaching the brake booster, install a 1/4" check valve in the vacuum line leading to the brake booster. Ensure the check valve is installed in the correct direction to keep boost pressure from flowing the wrong way.
Potential Drawbacks of a Vacuum Pump Delete
While the vacuum pump delete has numerous benefits, it’s important to consider potential downsides:
1. Loss of Vacuum-Assisted Components
If you remove the vacuum pump, certain components that rely on vacuum power—like the brake booster and other vacuum-assisted systems—will need modifications. Make sure you are comfortable with the modifications required or have alternative systems in place, such as a manual brake booster (recommended for race use only).
2. Legal and Emissions Issues
Depending on where you live, removing the vacuum pump could affect your car's emissions system. Be sure to check local emissions regulations before proceeding with the delete kit.
3. Increased Install Complexity
Removing the vacuum pump means that some systems which used to rely on it may need to be upgraded or adjusted. For instance, the brake booster will require the vacuum line modification described earlier. Luckily, we offer a full install guide and even a vacuum harness kit to make sure your install experience is as smooth as possible.
Conclusion
The SDF vacuum pump delete kit for the Fiesta ST and other 1.6L Ecoboost powered vehicles offers several key benefits, including improved engine efficiency, a cleaner engine bay, and—most importantly—ensuring that you always have vacuum for the brake booster, even if the factory vacuum pump fails. The billet aluminum delete kit also saves 1.5 lbs of weight and eliminates a potential point of failure in the vacuum system.
Before deciding to install the delete kit, be sure to consider the necessary modifications for vacuum-powered components, as well as any potential legal or emissions concerns. If you're comfortable with the installation and modifications required, the vacuum pump delete could be a solid upgrade for your Fiesta ST or other Ecoboost-powered vehicles.