Electric Fuel Pump Switch or Not

[Mart]

I think it also depends on which type of pump you want to use. I use the type that was fitted to Minis and Morris minors back in the day (and many other cars). Like Supereal says, you turn on the ignition, hold the switch for the pump, wait until the pump stops ticking, let go the pump switch and then start up. Saves a lot of cranking.

I wouldn't use a rotary constant flow type pump. Just one that turns itself off when the carb is filled and the fuel stops flowing.

In think all the talk of relays and inertia switches stems from modern fuel injected cars where you have pumps with high flow rates and high pressure. That is not what you want or need to give your old flatty a little assist in starting after standing for a while.

Do we need em? No. But they are useful in my opinion. I wouldn't get rid of the mechanical pump either. I have found them to be reliable. More reliable than an electric pump.

Mart.

 

[FlatheadTed]

I recently fitted one to a 47 cheby as the owner complained of it not starting ,I used a button switch that you hold down under the dash ,no chance of it staying on ,result very happy owner .Ted

 

[flatford8]

I like the idea of Ted's push button for momentary use. I don't have an electric pump on my car. It sets for two weeks sometimes. I let crank for about five seconds, pull the choke, turn on the key and it starts right up. I've only been bothered by vapor lock once and have since put a spacer under the carb. I know some are bothered by it where temps are hotter..... Mark