First, thanks to all who took an interest in helping me solve this problem. I really appreciate it.
First, check to see that the camshaft lobe that operates the pump isn't worn out. Remove the pump, and have someone tap the starter as you shine a bright light into the hole. There should be a noticeable high spot visible as the cam turns. If the shaft is round, or showing extreme wear, it's time to change the cam. It's also possible you've simply bought a non-functional new pump. Push the pump operating rod down against the workbench top and see if any vacuum is developed at the inlet port. It's either a bad cam or a bad pump, or possibly both, but that would be pretty unlikely!
Jerry
Jerry, you were right! I removed the fuel pump and it tested OK by hand. I could feel it suck at the inlet and I could make it suck gas out of a gas can by hand pumping the lever.
Here's a
picture of the cam lobe. And another picture. It has a groove down the middle and after tapping the starter a few times, it appears to be round in the middle where it contacts the fuel pump.
Finally, I bolted the fuel pump back on and it will not pump gas and has no suction when I crank the motor.
The PO had hooked up an electric fuel pump and bypassed the mechanical. Now I know why. I had always assumed it was because the mechanical fuel pump went bad.
What all is involved in replacing that cam and should I consider just using an electric fuel pump instead? Does that cam have any other function?
