I will be quickly corrected if I am wrong, but all the engines I have worked on (235/261) from 54-62 just push up against the cam lobe directly. Some years have the lever up, some have the lever down, but don't forget to put a little grease on the lever to prevent galling. The one I just did, I was able to even start the bolts before it started resisting. I like JW's idea.. try that. You may have something plugged up between the pump and the carb. Good luck!
