The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Ok Fuel Pump confusion

I just picked up my 52 1 Ton and it has a massive leak at the fuel pump. To save time I figured I would just hop over to the auto store pick up a replacement and off we go. Well then the question came up about the vacuum and if it is attached to that. The motor is a 216 and it only has fuel in and fuel out from what I can tell. Is it safe to assume that there is not vacuum pump on it?
Also do these pumps usually leak?

Thanks

Jackyl,

More than likely, you are correct, and the pump only has fule in and fuel out.

They make an aftermarket pump that's dual action, and creates a vacuum source to better power your wipers. This is probably what they were asking you about.

Beware, they are significantly more expensive.

The dual-action fuel pump (Combination Fuel and Vacuum Pump) was a GM Regular Production Option (a factory option, that also could be added/changed later). As Eric said, you have the standard fuel pump.

As to "do they usually leak": no, only when they are worn out. Seriously, they tend to last a long time but they do wear out.

Jackyl,

As folks have indicated, the most common stock pump was the glass top, single action. If the gasket under the glass is broken or has been lost, the pump will leak at that location.

The glass must be tightened down snug and the fuel lines must be tight. The usual failure would be internal, and would dump fuel into the crankcase, diluting the motor oil. If the pump it held together with multiple screws, sometimes you can tighten them and stem the flow of fuel.

Make sure the fuel is coming from the pump itself, and not running down the discharge line to carb and merely dripping from the pump. Good luck.

Stuart

The vacuum booster pump is the best friend a set of vacuum-operated windshield wipers ever had. It's easy to recognize that pump- - - -it looks like two pumps grafted together, with threaded fittings for the fuel system, and slip-on nipples for the vacuum lines. If you're still running vacuum wipers, bite the bullet and spring for the vac-boost pump.
Jerry

It,s a good idea to change the fuel pump & hoses when you get one of these old trucks. The gas we get today attack the materials used years ago. They can start leaking & clog up lines & carb.