While I agree it is a cheap pump, I looked at the holley and others of that ilk. Comparing the pictures of them:

This one from Summit https://www.summitracing.com/parts/s...FRxWDQodUjEIvQ

Holley https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...FdeIswodgfEKuA



Mr. Gasket:



They all look about the same. I know looks aren't everything, but, years ago, 1966/67, I worked for a manufacturing company. We made our name brand product and label products for several different companies. It all came from the same lines. There was no difference, except the price. That concept has never left me. All that said, it appears this one is on it's way out.

 

Let's not lose sight of this being a flathead, 239 cu in, not an engine that needs (or wants) a lot of flow or pressure. Don't need a really heavy duty pump, BUT that does appear to be unlikely to give long service. I really favor the Airtex pumps, I've had one on my truck for 10+ years, no issues. Model E8016S, costs about $50.

 

This is the summit one I was referring to, probably overkill for a flathead.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-g3138

 

I agree they all look to be built by the same company. Here is the Holley.
I was surprised about the noise level on the Holley I just installed. New exhaust system next week means I'll be able to hear it. I was hoping that it might get quieter with some use. If not Amazon will refund and I'll try Ross's Airtex.

 

I have used Holley "red" pumps for decades, yes they are noisy if rigid mounted but they can be quieted down if you use rubber isolators. Here is the setup I have on my 56...

 

Yeah, the flatty doesn't need but a couple pounds of pressure.

 

The Airtex looks a lot like the 6 volt pump I pulled off it. The price is good and install is simple. Thanks Ross. I think that's the direction I will go in.

 

I'll second the Airtex E8016S, which was chosen after doing a lot of reading around here. I installed it a few weeks ago along with a Holley 12-804 pressure regulator. Pretty straight-forward installation and it fired right up, haven't had any issues. Worked so much better than my worn out mechanical pump.

 

Is that the one that you have Ross?

 

Yes, both the pump and regulator. Some people run the E8016S on flatheads without a regulator, and seems to work fine, if the float system in the carb is good. Run good filters ahead and behind the pump!

It's shocking to me that when I bought my pump and regulator in about 2006, the regulator was about $18 - $20, and the pump was $25. Both are double that now.

 

I went to a local cruise-in tonight. Everything operated just as it is supposed to. No extra loud noise, nothing. Just the normal start up clicking and all was fine. I think I'm going to consider the extra noise, from Sunday, as a warning that things are about to go South. I'll order a new pump tonight.

 

I pulled th old, (8 months), pump today and put the new Airtex in it's place. After things were done and everything worked, I took a close look at the old pump. It seems nothing was wrong with the pump. But, the input fuel filter was so dirty, I couldn't blow anything through it. I do believe that may have been the problem.
No issues, I like the Airtex more anyway. It's quieter and much easier to install. Besides, I now have a spare pump.

 

See my post #9, for those reasons and others I threw away the Airtex inlet filter and added a large metal filter. Sounds like yours would benefit from one. Enjoy some drive time!