Take Two: Taking on a Second EFEP 385A
There's No Such Thing
As too many benches
Another day, another bench here at Black Forest. Now that we have our first EFEP 385A and EFEP 390 restored, we're on to our next project with another EFEP 385A. This one was in a little bit rougher shape. Like the previous examples, everything still worked, but there was a bit more wear and tear and a whole lot of rust we had to get through. Not only that but the motor and wiring on this model also needed quite a bit of work in comparison to our previous restorations so we had to go a bit deeper.
The previous benches had some cosmetic issues but the wiring and motor were in good condition and rust was minimal. This bench required getting under the skin, literally. We removed the body, panels, grates and access doors as well as removing the engine and corroded wiring components. Once the rust was removed, the bench got some sanding and a fresh coat of paint while the body required some heavy sanding, grinding and even a bit of bondo work for a few holes and gouges.
Replacing the tubes and wiring on this bench was a big part of the process. Seals were worn out, tubing was deteriorated, and many if not all of the clamps had loosened and sprung small to moderate leaks. In some areas everything needed to be replaced. Others came back to life after cleaning out the lines and contact surfaces.
Once we got the new fittings, tubes, liquids and clamps replaced and installed it was time to fire it up. Small leaks were cleaned up as needed but, for the most part the bench started and ran smoothly. Take a look at the test video below to see it in action.
With the bench running it was time to address the working conditions. Most shops aren't exactly quiet, but it's nice to be able to hear the phone ring. Since we had completely pulled this bench apart we figured we might as well improve the insulation and sound dampening. One box of high-density acoustic foam later and our new bench rivals most recording booths.
Once the insulation was installed all that we had left was a test run and assembly of the dials, gauges, labels, remaining hoses, glass cylinders and hardlines. Since this was our second restoration of a Bosch EFEP 385A, this bench came together smoothly and quickly, and within a day of wrapping up the restoration work, the bench was installed in our pump room with a fuel injection pump mounted and ready for testing.
And for our last trick, take a look at the freshly restored EFEP 385A #2 get to work on its first fuel injection pump.
