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Is the fuel pump on a classic car reliable?

Is the fuel pump on a classic car reliable?

The standard mechanical fuel pumps found on classic cars are very reliable. With that said, nothing automotive lasts forever and at some point mechanical fuel pumps will fail. So, Most mechanical fuel pumps are used on older engines that have carburetors.

What should the torque be on a fuel pump?

The fuel pump bolt torque specification is usually around 25 to 35 foot-pounds. Regardless of the model of the fuel pump, the best way to ensure the bolt is tightened properly is to use a torque wrench. To make sure the bolt stays in place, apply a small amount of thread-locking compound before reassembly.

What to do when your fuel pump is not working?

Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the pump outlet, or tee a gauge into the fuel line at the carburetor. Crank the engine and note the pressure reading on the gauge. If there is no pressure, or if pressure is less than specifications, replace the pump. Most mechanical fuel pumps have a weep hole on the bottom side of the unit.

What causes oil to come out of fuel pump?

Where the fuel pump mounts to the timing case cover a gasket provides a tight seal. Although this gasket is usually reliable, engine vibration can cause the bolts to come loose. When this happens, oil can seep out around the fuel pump.

Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the pump outlet, or tee a gauge into the fuel line at the carburetor. Crank the engine and note the pressure reading on the gauge. If there is no pressure, or if pressure is less than specifications, replace the pump. Most mechanical fuel pumps have a weep hole on the bottom side of the unit.

The standard mechanical fuel pumps found on classic cars are very reliable. With that said, nothing automotive lasts forever and at some point mechanical fuel pumps will fail. So, Most mechanical fuel pumps are used on older engines that have carburetors.

When do you replace a mechanical fuel pump?

If there is no pressure, or if pressure is less than specifications, replace the pump. Most mechanical fuel pumps have a weep hole on the bottom side of the unit. When the internal diaphragm leaks, fuel escapes through the weep hole to notify the vehicle owner of a malfunction.

Where is the fuel pump located on a six cylinder engine?

The pump is operated by an eccentric lobe on the camshaft or the camshaft gear. On six cylinder engines, the eccentric rides directly on the fuel pump arm. On V8 engines, a push rod between the camshaft eccentric and the fuel pump operates the fuel pump arm.

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Ruth Doyle