Fuel pump problems

['65 chevy lover]

Howdy everyone, having problems with the fuel pump. About 6 months ago, I decided to change the fuel pump. Had it off there and then, decided to not change it( it still worked I just thoght I would start out with all new parts). Tried to start the truck and wouldn't start. It would run a little bit but never would stay running. Checked the pump and wasn't pumping. Now I go and get a new pump and, still not working. When I pulled it off this time, the push rod inside was really hard to move. Anyone have ideas what's going on? Thanks for any help.

[jtrichard]

is it big block or small block?the rod could have gotten bent or did you put the long bolt in the front hole (small block) to hold the rod up?and forget to take it out?

[Tx Firefighter]

I agree, sounds like too long of a bolt in that front block hole. The bolt has to be very short to not rub the pushrod.

Temporarily remove the bolt and see if the pushrod will now slide up and down easily.
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['65 chevy lover]

Originally Posted by jtrichard

is it big block or small block?the rod could have gotten bent or did you put the long bolt in the front hole (small block) to hold the rod up?and forget to take it out?

Small block. Is the long bolt you refer to a water pump bolt? Thanks for the help.

[jtrichard]

No it is one just in front of where the fuel pump mounts ..some brackets or early engine "front" mounts bolt there.. 2 bolt holes would be to left of crank looking at front of engine i don't remember if its the high or low bolt that holds the fuel pump push rod

['65 chevy lover]

Originally Posted by Tx Firefighter

I agree, sounds like too long of a bolt in that front block hole. The bolt has to be very short to not rub the pushrod.

Temporarily remove the bolt and see if the pushrod will now slide up and down easily.
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Thanks for the help.

['65 chevy lover]

Well, looks like I screwed the pooch. Removed the bolt and now the push rod moves better but, still not moving like it should. The fuel pump is pushing some fuel but not like it needs to be. I guessing that either the rod is bent or, it's damaged enough to keep it from moving all the way back in. What do I do now?

[Tx Firefighter]

Drop the rod out and have a look see. They're an easily available parts store item if needed.
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['65 chevy lover]

Originally Posted by Tx Firefighter

Drop the rod out and have a look see. They're an easily available parts store item if needed.
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Ok, wasn't sure if it could be removed without tearing down the motor.

[Tx Firefighter]

Unbolt the fuel pump and then the flat plate behind it. It's held on by those two little bolts on the bottom edge (and the fuel pump when its installed). Once you remove the plate, the rod drops right out.
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[jtrichard]

IF it is bent or has a burr on it from the bolt it may not just fall out..on big blocks when they put the pump on with out holding the rod up it bends so far that you have to weld another rod/bolt on the end of it to pull it out with.you can see after it is out if it is just a burr and you might be able to file that down and get it working again when you put it back together push the rod up all the way put long bolt back in snug NOT TIGHT then put the pump in... after the pump is tight (DO NOT CRANK ENGINE WITH BOLT IN) then TAKE the long bolt OUT and then put a short bolt in the hole