Robbaker

Hey all, quick question for you. Which is a better way to go, mechanical or electric fuel pump? my '73 currently has a cheap p.o.s. electric, and it's on it's last legs. So...I'm going to get a new pump, just not sure which way to go with it. Thanks for the advice!!
Rob

mpbg43

Hey Rob, A couple of reasons to consider keeping it electric, as the motors get older the cam lobe and rod that push the pump arm wear, and eventually will wear out. On big blocks it is very common, I'm not sure on small blocks. But a better reason is that the modern fuels evaporate faster, and can cause a slow / hard start especially in hot weather, the electric comes on with the key, and re fills the fuel bowls. My Superbird went to electric and MSD and started so good in any weather that I can recommend it from personal experience.

Robbaker

Thanks for the info and advice B. My Challenger was a classic example of someone "Jerry-Rigging" from start to finish, so as I'm working on it, I'm trying to fix not just the car, but get rid of alot of the problems that someone else's cheap work and short cuts caused. I'll order me a new pump, and will post some pic's of the before and after.

One last question, same topic, should I get a fuel regulator to go along with the new pump? I'm still running the original 318, and haven't modded it very much yet, just a new intake and 4 bbl carb for now, though I do have plans to redo the heads and cam next.

mpbg43

They make fuel pumps specifically for carbureted cars that keep the pressure in the required range. http://holley.com/12-801-1.asp

lear4406

I prefer the mechanical and the small block chrysler fuel pump is on an offset ring, bolted to the front of the cam. Electric is great, but will need a regulator or too much pressure will weaken the needle and seat. Or just over ride it due to too much pressure. I believe Holly still makes a great 6-8 pounds of pressure mechnical pump that I use along with a regulator. Good thing about the electrical pump is you can adjust the regulator. You can adjust the reg on the mechanical one also but you have less pressure to work with.