electric fuel pump and regulator debate

[Chevy305]

So as I am acruing parts for my new 355 that I am building for my truck, it has come to my attention that the 87+ blocks can't run mechanical fuel pumps . So an electric pump upgrade is needed. This engine is going to be producing over 400hp and feeding a Road Demon Jr carb (single inlet) at 725cfm. The factory fuel system in my truck has a 3/8 supply, 5/16 vent, and a 1/4 return line. Basically I have been looking at Summit and Jegs for an inline electric pump and I have no idea what I need or whats a quality pump or capacity that I need. And also which pumps are going to be the quietest. I can deal with the noise but would prefer if I didn't.

Also I see the cheap regulators are all non-return type. The return type ones are at least $100. A return regulator makes sense to me as it keeps the fuel flowing through the pump and I already have a return line in place.

One more thing, would it be worth the $$ to go to an all braided stainless fuel lines with -an fittings? If so is a -6an line the right size for my needs?

 

[Ned Kelly]

Don't overlook these Facet pumps:
http://www.jcwhitney.com/universal-solid-state-electric-pumps/p2005671.jcwx
I bought mine at the local auto store in 1989 for $65.

I have been running this on my 454 for over 20yrs! Mounted it to the frame. Very quiet, can barely hear it. My entire fuel system is stock 1985 issue as it came with the truck. I used this pump without the return line and just plugged the factory return line - I've had zero problems. I bought two of these pumps, one to keep in the glove box as a spare, and one mounted the frame. The glove box unit is still sitting as a spare and untouched for 20yrs. I do not run any regulator with the setup. The pump has no problem keeping fuel going and my truck never sputters - even at 5000rpm. It really has been one of the best low dollar items I've ever purchase. I think the Facet pumps are still US made. I run factory type rubber fuel line hose. I don't think braided is worth the cost for my application.

 

[warwgn]

I got a holley pressure regulator with a bypass outlet I will sell you new in the box. $60 Shipped

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HLY-12-803BP/

decided not to use it and got a non bypass regulator.

 

[rcamacho]

3/8 line should be fine up to 400HP. A return style regulator is a good idea. I run an EFI pump to my carb with a return regulator dumping excess back to the tank. A lot of electric low pressure pumps will still over pressurize a carburetor. I like 6-7 psi max.

 

[Chevy305]

would it be better to get a 87 tbi tank with an in tank pump and then just run the a bypass regulator at the carb?

 

[Chevy305]

any more opinions?

 

[4X4HIGH]

Don't rule out that the block isn't capable of accepting a mechanical fuel pump. My original 89 350 that i pulled out is able to use a mechanical pump, it just had a block off plate bolted to the block since it is a TBI engine and did not use a mechanical pump (I pulled the plate to verify that it was drilled for the pushrod). Not all blocks are drilled for the mechanical pump though so double check yours before you get too far along.

 

[496truck]

correction: 3/8 feed, 5/16 return, 1/4 vent lines

Appears your block has the mounting boss for a mech fuel pump... Will need to check for the fuel pump push rod hole and if the cam has the accentric lobe on it to drive the pushrod.

 

[4X4HIGH]

I can tell from the pic you just posted that his IS NOT drilled for the pushrod since all the mounting holes aren't even there for the fuel pump plate.

 

[Chevy305]

correction: 3/8 feed, 5/16 return, 1/4 vent lines

Appears your block has the mounting boss for a mech fuel pump... Will need to check for the fuel pump push rod hole and if the cam has the accentric lobe on it to drive the pushrod.

Well I guess I have my fuel lines backwards.... And I asked the machine shop if they could drill for a mechanical pump and they said that they have never heard of anyone doing that.

 

[496truck]

I wasn't sure if you just couldn't see the bolt holes via the pic or paint...

 

[Chevy305]

So, could I just slap in a TBI tank and still use my factory carb fuel lines? Also would the factory fuel pump supply enough fuel?