The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 235 fuel problem - need help

I have a ’53 3600 with a rebuilt 235 and am having a fuel problem. If the motor has not been started in 5 or more days, the fuel filter (clear plastic) drains and the fuel must drain down to the pump. Under this condition, it takes almost all of my battery reserve to crank enough to get fuel into the carbs (a pair of Carter/Webers)(chokes work fine) to finally start. Once it starts, it runs great. It will re-start easily that day and for several more days and then drained after that. There is no fuel smell below the pump so I do not expect a drip leak.(possible though) I have attached pics in Photo Bucket http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/...uel%20system/Fuel%20pump_zpsc5odfo9d.jpg
Should this particular pump have a back flow preventer? Should I insert a back flow preventer in the line and if so, where? Someone said to install an electric fuel pump on the fuel tank side of the mechanical fuel pump and let it fill the pump and line and it should start. Is this the best solution?
If I have to replace the mechanical pump or get re-build parts, what do I have?
John Hill

this is pretty normal as far as I know, it doesn't drain out, it evaporates. The fuel pump itself has 2 check valves in it. (that is how it works) I keep a bottle with a pointy nozzle full of gas by the truck and just give it a little shot of fuel down the carburetor when it hasn't ran in a week or so. Don't just sit there and grind away on the starter.

I don't know if that is a pump or some kind of filter in the photo but for sure it is leaking. there is no reason for a pump to have stains like that.

Sounds like a weak pump to me.
Carl

Pump definitely looks suspect. You can rebuild (or have it rebuilt) that one or get one from NAPA, etc.

I can get a new pump from NAPA for $50. I'll try that.
Thanks for the feedback.
John