Epic Ford Conversion Kit
The kit contains everything needed to convert the EPIC electrical pump system over to a mechanical BOSCH VE system.
OE Pump Numbers
8720A*** & 8720B*** To 0460 414 154
Suitable for Ford Transit 2.5ltr Turbocharged models between 1990-2000, with both manual and automatic transmissions.
Accessories Included –
Instructions
Accelerator Pedal
Banjos, Bolts, Pipes & Washers
Common problems on a Ford Transit 2.5ltr with an Epic pump:
- Limp Mode at Idle: The engine warning light comes on, and you lose power, but turning the engine off and on temporarily clears the fault.
- Engine Won’t Turn Off: An electronic shutoff solenoid fault on the EPIC pump causes the engine to keep running for up to 30 seconds after you turn the key, before dropping into limp mode.
- The engine refuses to rev past approximately 3,000 RPM and struggles severely when going uphill or under load.
- Erratic Idling: The engine shudders, hunts for the right RPM at idle, or experiences a harsh “diesel knock”
- Fuel Leaks: Internally worn seals can cause the pump to leak diesel onto the engine block.
- Starting Issues: The engine suffers from extended cranking times, especially when the fuel tank is low, or it starts and dies immediately
Why Perform the Conversion?
- The electronic EPIC pump is no longer produced and is highly prone to sensor and wiring faults.
- Avoiding “Limp Mode”: The Lucas EPIC system is heavily reliant on electronic sensors and the vehicle’s ECU. If a sensor fails or the pump develops a fault, the engine often drops into a frustrating “limp mode” or cuts out entirely. A mechanical Bosch VE pump eliminates these ECU-related issues
- Extreme Repair Costs: Finding a specialist who can rebuild a Lucas EPIC pump is difficult and expensive. Swapping in a Bosch VE pump is generally viewed by mechanics as a more practical, permanent fix.
- Mechanical Simplicity: The Bosch VE is a fully mechanical, rotary-style injection pump. Once installed, it is largely independent of the engine ECU, only requiring a simple 12V feed to the fuel shut-off solenoid.
- Increased Performance & Reliability: Though the engine will run slightly louder than before, the Bosch pump is generally viewed by the community as far more durable, offering better off-the-line torque and the ability to be manually tuned for increased horsepower.
Key Components Needed to make the conversion…
- A reconditioned or modified Bosch VE injection pump
- A mechanical throttle pedal and accelerator cable
- Boost hose pipe, banjo bolts, and accessories
Installation Steps:
- Remove the EPIC Pump: Drain the cooling and fuel systems, disconnect the wiring harnesses, and unbolt the old electronic pump.
- Install the Bosch Pump: Bolt the Bosch VE pump to the engine block. You may need to fine-tune the static pump timing to match your engine’s turbo characteristics.
- Add Pedal Mechanism: Because the EPIC pump is drive-by-wire, you will need to swap the electronic pedal for a mechanical one and run a new throttle cable to the engine bay.
- Plumbing & Wiring: Route the boost hose to the pump’s diaphragm for proper fuel enrichment under load. You can leave the original wiring loom tied back safely, as the new pump only requires a 12V supply to the fuel shut-off solenoid.




