Fuel injection pump

The pump (1) has a pump housing (2) and a pressure chamber (5) for fuel with a piston (3) whose first end (3a) is associated with the pressure chamber and whose second end (3d) is coupled to a rod (7) and a spring (9) acting between the pump housing and rod. A cover for the piston and/or the rod is arranged near the second end of the piston. Independent claims are also included for the following: a diesel internal combustion engine.