Chapter 3: Fuel System & Fuel Injection

As we step deeper into understanding the Zontes ZT310-T, this chapter builds upon our foundational engine knowledge by diving into one of the most important systems for performance, reliability, and efficiency — the fuel system. In this chapter, you’ll learn how fuel is stored, delivered, and precisely injected into your engine, and how to maintain each step of that process.

The Fuel Journey

The fuel journey begins in your motorcycle’s tank. From there, it travels through a fuel pump, into a filter, and finally reaches the fuel injector. The entire process is controlled by your motorcycle’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU), which takes readings from various sensors to determine how much fuel is needed at any given moment.

Simplified diagram of a modern fuel injection system.

Cold Starts & Warm-Ups

Fuel-injected bikes like the ZT310-T don’t require long warm-up periods. Here’s what you should do instead:

• Cold Start: Let the bike idle for 30 seconds to 1 minute — just enough for oil to circulate and idle to stabilize.
• Use that time: Put on your helmet, gloves, and quickly check your lights and tire pressure.
• Ride gently: Avoid high RPMs until the engine is fully warmed up after a few kilometers.
• Warm Start: No need to idle. Just start and ride off smoothly.

Fuel Pump & Filter Maintenance

The fuel pump is an electric component inside your tank. It’s designed to last for thousands of kilometers, but dirt or poor fuel quality can shorten its life. The fuel filter, meanwhile, catches impurities before they reach your injector.

Steps to Maintain the Fuel Pump and Filter:

1. Empty the fuel tank safely into a clean container.
2. Remove the seat and tank covers using your hex wrench set.
3. Disconnect the fuel pump connector and remove mounting bolts.
4. Gently pull out the fuel pump assembly.
5. Inspect the filter — replace it if it’s dirty or discolored.
6. Check the pump impeller for debris or blockage.
7. Clean components with fresh petrol and reassemble carefully.

Fuel pump maintenance – a must every 10,000–15,000 km in dusty regions.

Fuel Injector Care

The injector nozzle delivers fuel in atomized form into the combustion chamber. Over time, it may become clogged or produce poor spray patterns.

To clean your fuel injector:

1. Disconnect the fuel line at the injector.
2. Use a specialized fuel injector cleaning kit (or take it to a mechanic with ultrasonic cleaning tools).
3. Inspect spray pattern after cleaning. It should be a fine, even mist — not a stream or dribble.

Sensor Inputs & ECU Decisions

The ECU decides how much fuel to inject based on data from:

• Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
• Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor
• Engine Temperature Sensor
• Oxygen Sensor (O2)

Make sure these sensors are clean and connected properly — a malfunctioning TPS can cause jerky throttle response, while a bad O2 sensor can ruin fuel economy.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

• Use premium fuel (91+ octane) if possible. It helps reduce carbon buildup.
• Check tire pressure regularly – underinflated tires increase fuel use.
• Ride at consistent RPMs. Fuel-injected engines are most efficient at moderate throttle.
• Clean air filter = less effort for your fuel system.

Conclusion: The Pulse of Performance

Your Zontes ZT310-T’s fuel system is the pulse of your machine. By understanding its journey — from tank to throttle body — you become equipped not only to fix it but also to diagnose symptoms before they become serious. A sputter at throttle? Likely fuel delivery. Poor mileage? Maybe a dirty injector or failing O2 sensor.

In the next chapter, we move on to the cooling system, where you’ll learn how to ensure your engine stays at the perfect temperature under all riding conditions.