Faulty or worn out mechanical fuel pump? Rebuilt carbs or engine? Pump valves and/or diaphragms worn out? Find having to do a lot of engine cranking on a seldom used car? Then a change to an electric fuel pump is the way to go.

Buy a low-pressure pump up to 4.5psi, although a higher psi may be needed where there is more than one carb. Modern day pumps are solid-state and don’t make a ticking sound like SU pumps as they don’t have contact breakers.

Tools and equipment needed
Good quality fuel hose capable of taking high pressure, Jubilee clips, In-line fuel filter (or if money allows a Filter King should be purchased – it not only has a filter but it also keeps the fuel pressurised at a constant pressure). Make sure you note the inlet pipe and outlet pipe, screwdrivers, spanners, drill and bits, mounting bolts/large self-tappers, wire, switch, male/female spade connectors and an eye connector for the earth, wire strippers and crimpers. Lucas type blanking plates can be obtained with or without a gasket from www.chriswitor.com for around £4.00 inc. gasket.

Remove hoses from fuel pump and blank them off with an old bolt and a jubilee clip to prevent spillage.
Unbolt the pump and blank off the hole with a suitable piece of metal and new gasket.
If you are not removing the pump connect the inlet and outlet pipes together with a suitable piece of pipe. Don’t leave them open.
If the new electric pump has not got a mounting bracket an ignition coil bracket will usually do the trick.
Find a suitable mounting point in the boot or engine compartment. Make sure it is away from hot components. Avoid mounting the pump too high as it will have to work harder.
It may be advisable to replace all old fuel pipes at this stage.
Pay attention to ‘Top’ markings or ‘In’ and ‘Out’ markings.
Make a good earth off the pump – do not rely on the metal of the pump to do the job for you.
Connect the live to the on-side of your ignition switch making sure you have fitted a 10amp inline fuse. If connecting to the ignition is difficult connect to the positive side of the ignition through an impact switch. An impact switch will kill the power going to the pump in case of an accident.
As the pump will run on if not connected through the ignition an on/off switch must be fitted to the wire going to the coil. This switch should be fitted to the dash. A well-hidden switch (under the dash) will act as an anti-theft device. Although in the case of an accident you are the only person that knows where the switch is.

NB
When working on electrics always disconnect your battery. Also if in doubt ask a professional. Do not take risks with fuel and/or electrics.