Walbro, DeatschWerks and Aeromotive are three names that come up whenever someone adds power and needs more fuel. They sell different kinds of pump: Walbro and DeatschWerks are best known for in-tank pumps that replace a factory unit, while Aeromotive also builds larger inline pumps and complete in-tank systems. This guide compares them by pump type, fuel compatibility, wiring and the kind of build each suits.
The short answer
| Walbro | DeatschWerks | Aeromotive | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical pump | Universal in-tank, with install kits for many cars | In-tank pumps and vehicle-specific kits | Inline pumps and in-tank systems |
| Examples | High-pressure in-tank and E85 models | DW300C (340 lph), DW400 (415 lph) | Eliminator 11104 inline, Phantom in-tank systems |
| Ethanol / E85 | Some models rated for E85, some gasoline only: check the part | DW300C and DW400 pages say Ethanol Compatible | Eliminator 11104 and Phantom 200 pages list Gas/E85 |
| Wiring support | Varies by kit | Sells hardwire kits with a 40 amp relay | Sells a wiring kit and a pump controller |
| Best suited to | Street cars with modest upgrades | Street and turbo cars with a drop-in kit | High-power, race, carbureted and forced-induction builds |
For a modest street upgrade on a car with an in-tank pump, Walbro or DeatschWerks is the usual pick. For a bigger build, a race car or a system you plan around, Aeromotive is worth a close look. Always match the pump to your fuel, power goal and fuel system.
In-tank vs inline
An in-tank pump sits inside the fuel tank, which keeps it cool, quiet and out of the way. It is the usual choice when you are replacing a worn or undersized factory pump. An inline pump mounts outside the tank, in the frame rail or engine bay. It is easier to size up for big power and is common on carbureted cars, race cars and builds with a separate surge tank. Aeromotive's Eliminator 11104 is a brushed rotary-vane pump that the maker lists for external or internal mounting, for EFI or carbureted use. In-tank systems like the Aeromotive Phantom come with a hanger, baffle and pre-pump filter for builds where the factory module is being replaced.
Walbro: universal in-tank pumps
Walbro pumps are sold both as universal in-tank units and as kits for specific cars. The range includes pumps made for gasoline only and pumps rated for E85, so the part number matters more than the brand. See the Walbro F90000274 E85 in-tank pump as an E85 example, or the Walbro high-pressure 255 LPH gasoline pump for a gasoline-only upgrade. Universal pumps usually need you to fit the pump to the factory module or a hanger, and to check the wiring and fuel pressure regulator.
DeatschWerks: drop-in kits and wiring support
DeatschWerks sells many vehicle-specific kits, so a swap can be closer to bolt-in. Its DW300C page lists a 340 lph compact pump, and the DW400 page lists 415 lph. Both pages mark the pumps as Ethanol Compatible and list a limited lifetime warranty, but they do not state E85 specifically, so read the tech data sheet if you plan to run E85. DeatschWerks recommends a 10-gauge hardwire kit for the DW400. Examples in our store: the DW400 kit for the Ford Mustang and the DW300C kit for the BRZ, FR-S and WRX.
Aeromotive: inline pumps and complete systems
Aeromotive is the pick when you want a pump plus a full system plan. The Eliminator 11104 is listed by Aeromotive as Gas/E85 compatible, uses a dual-chamber pumping mechanism and has lower horsepower ratings on E85 than on gasoline. Its page says it is not legal for sale or use on emission-controlled vehicles except as a direct OEM-spec replacement. The Phantom 200 in-tank system is a 200 LPH turbine pump (the page lists a 215 LPH maximum at 40 PSI) rated for gas, E85, methanol and alcohol, and the page says the hanger fits tanks from 6 to 11 inches deep. The Phantom 340 kit is the larger version. Aeromotive's Phantom 200 page notes the kit does not include a regulator or wiring harness.
Wiring, relay and installation
A bigger pump draws more current, and old factory wiring can limit the voltage it gets. DeatschWerks says this plainly and sells hardwire kits with a 40 amp Bosch relay, recommended especially for cars over 10 years old, cars making over 800whp and cars not originally built for high power. Aeromotive lists the Eliminator at up to 16 amps at 45 psi with bare stud terminals, and the Phantom 200 at 8.3 amps. In both cases plan for proper gauge wire, a fused feed and a relay triggered by the factory pump signal. Aeromotive recommends its pump controller for street EFI use of the Eliminator, and a bypass-style regulator. Clean the tank area before opening it, depressurize the fuel system, and have a shop do the wiring if you are unsure.
Which build suits which pump
For a street car with bolt-ons, a 255 to 340 lph in-tank pump from Walbro or DeatschWerks is usually enough. For a turbo or supercharged car, especially on E85, look at the E85-rated Walbro, DW400 or Aeromotive Phantom options, and plan for the injectors and regulator. For a race car, a carbureted build or a large power goal, an inline Aeromotive Eliminator-style pump with a bypass regulator and the right plumbing is the traditional route. Read more about planning upgrades in our performance upgrade guide.
How to choose
- Match the pump to your fuel. Check the exact part for a gasoline-only or E85 rating.
- Start with your power goal. Pick a pump with room above it, then check injectors and regulator.
- Replacing a factory pump? Look for a vehicle-specific kit first.
- Upgrade the wiring. Use a hardwire kit and relay if the car is old or the pump draws a lot.
- Check legal use. Several high-flow pumps are listed as not for emission-controlled road vehicles.
- Check fit. Confirm the pump size, outlet and module or hanger suit your tank before ordering.
Common questions
Is DeatschWerks or Walbro better?
Neither wins everywhere. DeatschWerks leans toward vehicle-specific kits and wiring support. Walbro offers many universal pumps, including E85-rated ones. Choose by your vehicle, fuel and power goal, not by name.
Can I run E85 with any of these pumps?
Only with a pump rated for it. Some models from each brand are, and others are not. Check the product page or data sheet for your exact part, and confirm that injectors and lines also suit ethanol.
Do I need a relay for a new fuel pump?
Often yes, for higher-draw pumps and older cars. A relay and heavier wire send full battery voltage to the pump. Follow the pump maker's wiring guidance.
Should I choose in-tank or inline?
In-tank is quieter and the normal swap for a factory pump. Inline suits high-power, carbureted and race builds. Your fuel system layout and power goal decide.
Where to buy
Shop Aeromotive parts, DeatschWerks parts. We are an authorized dealer for every brand we sell, shipping is free anywhere in the USA, and returns are accepted within 60 days (unused, in the original packaging) and return shipping is free. Not sure what fits your vehicle? Contact our support team and we will help you check before you order.