The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Mechanical Fuel Pump VS Electric

Guys, I am thinking about using a electric fuel pump on my 350 SBC. What are the pros and cons on this issue?

I like a mechanical one if it fits your application.
I think that they are simple and very trouble free.
I think electric ones take a simple job and complicate it. With mechanical if the engine turns it pumps, there are only two check valves and a diaphragm, if it does not work it is easy to troubleshoot.
I have never had a problem with a mechanical fuel pump when using good gas and a filter before it.
I have never used an electric one, so my opinion is one sided.
I would only consider an electric one if the mechanical could not deliver the required amount of fuel or pressure.

I recently had to replace an electric pump in my car, and it cost about 10 times more than the mechanical one in my truck.

If your stuffing the 350 into a small engine compartment then electric is the way to go...you'll save a little clearance. If not then I'd stick with the mechanical fuel pump. They are reliable, cheap, and easy to get on and off without lifting or crawling under the truck.

Of course if the 350 is fuel injected you'll have to go with electric in-tank fuel pump.

And as always remember if you get in an accident the electric will keep pumping gas as long as it has power, while a mech will only pump it if the engines turning.

D__n good advice guys! I figure I'll be using a mechanical unless I run out of room.

I like the electric pump for vehicles that are not used every day. Turn on the key, let the pump build pressure, and the carb is full of gas. The engine starts much quicker with much less strain on the starter and battery.

An electric pump could also be used as a theft-deterrent--a hidden power switch to the pump would greatly cut down on the distance a thief could drive a stovebolt--assuming they could figure out the stomp starter.