What component actuates the fuel pump in an automotive system?

The camshaft is the component that actuates the fuel pump in an automotive system, particularly in older designs where the fuel pump is mechanically driven by the engine. The camshaft's rotation directly affects the timing and operation of the fuel pump, ensuring that fuel is delivered to the engine at the appropriate pressure and quantity during various engine operating conditions.

In many engines, the camshaft has a lobe that pushes against a lever attached to the fuel pump, creating the necessary mechanical action to draw fuel from the tank and send it to the engine. This mechanical actuation is crucial for ensuring consistent fuel delivery.

While the crankshaft plays a role in the overall function of the engine by converting linear motion to rotational motion and supporting various components, it does not directly actuate the fuel pump in this context. The throttle body is responsible for controlling air intake and does not directly affect fuel pump operation. Fuel injectors control the spray of fuel directly into the combustion chamber but do not initiate the fuel pump's operation. Thus, the camshaft is the most relevant component in this scenario for actuating the fuel pump.