Rexx

Ok, I know we've kinda beat this to death, but I'm having difficult installing a fuel pump on my '78. The engine is still in the car, at least that's where I saw it last. :D :rolleyes:

I can't manage to hold the pump in place while installing the bolts. I’m fighting the spring-force between the pump and the push rod. I've tried rotating the engine (by tapping the ignition key) to get the push rod all the way up into the engine. How far is that push supposed to get up in the engine?

I have been with the bolt method of holding the pushrod in place, not forgetting to remove it before rotating the engine! How could I rotate the engine with more precision?

Also, what type of greasing should the push rod get? The fuel pump is sealed, so I don’t see how it would get lubricated. Would you install the paper gaskets that came with the pump? Should I use a gasket between the plate and the engine block or just use hi-temp gasket sealer (the silicon-based orange stuff)?

Thanks a bunch

-Rexx

Blu8t

Rexx If you place the distributor rotor at the #1 position the cam lobe and the rod will be at its highest point ,take off the distributor cap and have a look, and varify with the harmonic balancer timming marks. I placed my gasket on the pump, but most of the work was done with the front wheel off . Good Luck

QuickVet

it is really easy with 2 people. have one person tap the ignition while the other holds the rod up there till it goes up really far.

paso

DITTO DITTO on above one note is make sure you lift the rod up as it should be flush when the above is met. It's kinda a DAH but I've seen people try insert the pump with the push rod fallen down> dab of grease will hold it up:):) no offense intended but it can happen to the best.

Rexx

Thanks guys. I'll give it a shot. The weather has been pretty nice here and I've been dying to drive her so I'm motivated to get her up and running again.

-Rexx

BB68Vett

My engine builder told me to use lithium grease to hold the rod up in the engine. I completely covered the push rod with grease and had no problem. I also used the paper gasket that came with the pump. I wouldn't use silicone as it will be messy to remove and is not really necessary to watertight seal that area.