Removing ECM and misc wiring questions

[Mkuhn138]

For those of you who have converted from carb to TBI, have any of you completely removed the ECM? I want to do this to simplify the vehicle, but am slightly confused as to what exactly needs to take place... I know I will need a new fuel pump relay that will be controlled by the ignition, but am assuming that it will constantly run when the ignition is on rather than pulse through the computer? Is there a way to get it to pulse but not run constantly until the engine is on? Also, for the gauges, can I put new sending units in for water temp, oil pressure, and speedo and wire back to the stock gauges? I eventually plan on aftermarket gauges, but it's not in the immediate future.

Also, when i yanked the TBI engine I pulled the battery, starter, alternator and all of the related wiring and unfortunately paid little attention to how everything interconnected. Since I'm going to be reworking all of this I'm considering eliminating the fusible link but not sure what a more reliable option is. And lastly, not sure how the chassis and rest of vehicle (aside from the starter and alternator) gets power - I have a very vague wiring diagram from Chiltons online and it does not show interconnection between the different systems/harnesses.

Sorry for all of the questions but I'm not a wiring expert by any means and am sure there are several people on here who can point me in the right direction.

Thanks

 

[Wyomingboy]

Just a suggestion, but I would keep your ECM until your ready to convert all your gauges and speedometer to independent operations. I think the most important function of the ECM with your carbed engine is to run your speedo.
I think that is what I will do, as the printed circuit board running my gauges is becoming more problematic with age, and I know I will be forced to go the independent gauge route eventually.

You could hook up a fuel pressure relay to a switched source of power, but if your running a carb why not just put a mechanical pump on and eliminate the return line to your tank and the (in tank pump) ? JMO