what would cause a (several) fuel pumps to fail prematurely?

 

I don't know but I have a '99 EX coupe and my fuel pump went out with like 60k on it....

 

Dirty fuel....clogged fuel filter. When low on gas the fuel pump can potentially run dry if fuel sloshes around or just runs out...this is hard on the pump. It's also speculation that maintaining a 1/2 tank and above will keep the fuel pump submerged and will help in cooling...I figure there's some truth to that, but don't know of any solid evidence.

 

I believe the cooling issue is only for running it empty. The pump is cooled & lubricated by the gas itself, but that's inside the pump. Not the outside of the canister.

OEM pump? I gotta believe they can run OK when you let the tank get close to empty. That's 'normal use' after all...

Some people using Walbros might be different. I had a Saab with a Walbro (factory installation) inside another canister that was kept filled. So maybe Walbro pumps need to be submerged.