Old gas in fuel pump

[Jack Guzman]

My 51 chevy pickup sat for a long time before I got it.The carburetor had dust in the bowl. The gas tank contained a little red liquid that smelled kind of like gas,but was probably concentrated dye with only traces of gas left unevaporated.
I rebuilt the carb and cleaned up the tank inside. I didn't touch the fuel pump because it was full.When I cracked the line there was still some pressure built up in it. I blew out all the fuel lines and now I'm having second thoughts about the fuel pump.
Would that gas under pressure remain stable or would it break down into something that would clog or damage the pump? I'm debating whether or not to rebuild the pump.
Anyone have any info for me that could help in my decision?---Thanks---Jack

[Daze57]

imho
if i were you i would cmpleatly rebuild it or replace it.
you have gone this far - why chance it

[solidaxel]

Welcome Jack !
Take the advice replace it now while you can and not along the side of the road in a rain storm !!

[NEWFISHER]

Yes, pull it apart and clean the diaphams at a minimum.

[1project2many]

Old pump diaphragms don't like today's fuel, especially if there's ethanol in the gas you buy. I'd look for a rebuild kit that's compatible with today's gasoline.

I'm surprised you had pressure in the lines. There shouldn't have been any. But as long as the lines are clear now and the needle isn't sticking in the seat you should be good to go.

[Jack Guzman]

Thanks folks. I'm going to hook it all up and run it as is until the new pump gets here. I don't like the sound of a diaphragm failure. I wouldn't want to see my new truck paint scratched up by a towtruck.---Jack

[DransportGarage]

Originally Posted by Jack Guzman

Thanks folks. I'm going to hook it all up and run it as is until the new pump gets here. I don't like the sound of a diaphragm failure. I wouldn't want to see my new truck paint scratched up by a towtruck.---Jack

If there's any crud in the fuel pump you run the chance of screwing up your carb rebuild. Do you have a filter between the pump and the carb? At a minimum, if you're going to do that, I'd disconnect the fuel line at the carb, crank the engine and shoot the gas into a can for a few seconds. Be sure there is NO SPARK by REMOVING (not just disconnecting) the coil wire.

WARNING: If your skill level is low in this area, don't do this. If you spill gas or otherwise ignite it this is a great opportunity to burn your truck to the ground. (Ask me how I know.)