Kugelfischer

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Kugelfischer is the name for a mechanical (jerk-type) fuel injection pump. It was produced by FAG Kugelfischer and later by Robert Bosch Corp.^[1] Derived from diesel pumps from the early 1960's, the Kugelfischer attained notorious status as the premier mechanical injection pump for performance vehicles. It was among the first units with manufacturer-customizable fuel delivery maps which used rpm, throttle position, temperature, and sometimes barometric pressure as inputs. This was accomplished mechanically, not electronically.

In the late 60's and early 70's, it was fitted to a variety of production performance vehicles from Ford UK, Peugeot, and others. But BMW took it to a new level with the introduction of the 2000tii/BMW 2002tii (and later, the 2002Turbo) performance sedan, from 1970-1975. Due to high manufacturing cost, it became economically undesirable with the mid-70's fuel crisis, and was replaced in the production car marketplace by cheaper electronic engine management (and CIS injection) by the end of the decade.

But the Kugelfischer was the ultimate in timed, high-pressure (over 500psi from the mechanical injectors) fuel delivery for race and sports cars. It gained a resurgence in the 80's as a specialty injection pump for GT, Prototype (IMSA-GTP, FIA-WSC, etc.) and F1 race engines from BMW, Porsche, Ford/Cosworth, Ferrari, Mazda, and others. As late as 1981, it was fitted to the BMW M1 car.

Today, the Kugelfischer pumps are prized pieces. Due to limited parts availability, reconditioning them properly can cost several thousand dollars and should only be performed by highly qualified individuals who are well-oriented in custom engine development.