Not that I doubt my engine rebuilding instructor, but does it really possibly cause damage and maybe failure to drive with a really low tank of fuel in the summer due to gasoline not cooling the fuel pump?

Are you talking stock? Some are more sensitive than others. With newer vehicles, it doesn't matter. Do you really think any car manufacture would make a fuel pump that could be damaged when the average driver drives around all day, too lazy to put gas in? They would have a ton of warranty claims if that were the case. I'm not saying it's a good idea, but will it hurt them for the most part...no.

I was just talking about in general. Old or new. It makes sense from my basic thinking. If it actually does shorten the life of fuel pumps, since I drive my trucks til the low fuel light comes on on the gassers.

Cooling and lubrication comes from the fuel flowing THROUGH the pump. Pump might make 5 minutes if run dry for that long

obviously the more fuel in the tank the cooler the pump will run. However, if you have 2 to 3 gallons in there, I would think that should keep it cool.

Cooling and lubrication comes from the fuel flowing THROUGH the pump. Pump might make 5 minutes if run dry for that long

Thanks for clarifying. I thought the pump needed to be submersed in gasoline to be properly cooled.