I have a 1955 F100 with a 351W sitting between the frame rails with a edelbrock 650 4bbl carb. I'm currently using the stock fuel pump. The truck had not been started in a while, and it was a bear to get running again since the carb was dry. Wanted to know if anyone is using an electric fuel pump instead and if there are any special considerations for switching over? I would suspect it would make starting easier etc, but didn't know if there were any fuel presure switches that were needed and what flow rate / PSI would be recommended.

thanks

 

If it had been sitting awhile, the pump would take awhile to pull fuel up from the tank. Your stock pump would be fine if you don't leave it for so long before starting it.

 

You should regulate an electric pump, otherwise you will flood. Stick it around 5lbs. I would suggest an inline regulator, and a pressure gauge so you know right where you stand.

But...as mentioned using a stock pump is fine. Just don't let it go dry and you won't have issues.

 

A safety shut off switch with an electric pump is recommended. Kits are made for the installation. The mechanical pump will work just fine if in good condition and has fuel available to pump.

 

There are several electric fuel pumps that are internally regulated to provide a set pressure. I installed a Facet electric pump & it is pre-set to 4 psi. Facet is a long time electric fuel pump manufacturer & they're now owned by Purolater. I'm running a Holley carb, but I do have an edelbrock carb on another vehicle...both use the same pump. I would prefer 3 psi....all the extra pressure will do is raise the level of the fuel in the carb float bowl so the fuel/air ratio will be a little more rich. Use whatever pressure your carburetor manufacturer recommends.

The considerations are:

Flow rate...most off-the-shelf automotive pumps are capable of flowing more than enough fuel. A 351W probably uses 5 or 6 gallons per hour on the freeway...there isn't much to gain with a racing fuel pump that will provide 60 gallons per minute.

Location: The pump has to be clear of the exhaust, as do your fuel lines. The extra heat from close proximity to exhaust pipes can cause vapor lock. I also prefer to mount the pump as close to the tank as possible (a pressure system rather than a suction system). Fuel lines under pressure are less likely to vapor lock than a line that is under suction.

Mounting: Mount to something solid...the electric pumps make noise, so you probably don't want to attach it to the firewall...where you'll hear it while you're driving.

Power: One thought is to put in a switch (maybe a hidden switch??), but if you power that switch from the "ON" pole of your ignition switch, it will turn off the pump when you turn off the ignition....you'll never walk away from your truck with the pump ON for hours while you're at work.

Filter: Most pump manufacturers recommend that you put a filter before the pump to keep crud from your tank out of the pump. I did that, and put in a shut off valve so that I can change the filter without gas running all over me.

Someone else can weigh in on the safety shut-off switches...I've had those on boats for years and I have had one shut itself off for no apparent reason. They are usually an impact or a roll-over switch that will turn the fuel pump OFF in an accident. It's probably a good idea.

By the way...I used an electric pump on my 351 because mine doesn't have a pad for a mechanical pump. I'd probably use the mechanical pump if I had the option. Some guys put in both...and use the electric to prime the system on cars that sit around a lot.