Fuel pump, fuel lines, and return lines

[Ted G]

Ok, I'm about to embark on running my fuel line(s). Don't hate, but I am running a carbed 427w. I only need one line (I think), but may run two just in case I change to EFI down the line. My question is, what fuel pump would you recommend? I am running hard lines. Also, should I run or would your recommend a fuel pressure regulator?

Please excuse me if my questions are silly..... I'm a newby

Ted

[edwardb]

Why would anyone hate you for running a carbed 427W? :confused: Oh well... You have options. Mainly I would say how likely is it you would switch to EFI and how much work you'd be willing to do if you did? The easy answer now is run a single line and use a mechanical pump at the engine. I've done a couple carb builds set up that way. Very straightforward and engines ran that way for decades. Just need to make sure you have the right front cover on your engine for the pump and an eccentric on the cam to run it. It would be easy enough to add EFI in the future with an in-line pump. Although many, myself included, prefer an in-tank pump. Quieter and cooled by the fuel so theoretically last longer. But many collector and performance cars use external pumps successfully. If you want to install an in-tank pump now, there are multiple options. Most EFI systems do require a return line, but not all. Also some EFI aftermarket systems come with a regulator. So several variables there. But if you put in an in-tank pump now, you will require a regulator that turns the pressure down from 50-60 required for EFI to less than 10 for the carb. I can't help you with that. I'm sure others can. For my most recent EFI build, I put the regulator and return line in the back by the tank. It's simpler, easier, and would be easy enough to add later if required. So you have lots of choices.

[skidd]

I too ran a return line Incase One day I went with EFI. However, I ran the provided 1/4" return line. Which is undersized for most aftermarket EFI systems. Make sure you run a pair of future proof 3/8" or higher lines.

That said, I'm running a dead headed 600cfm carb on a mild 302. Not sure how much pump your 427 will need, but I have an electric in tank pump that makes 6psi at my carb without a regulator. It's supposed to be able to supply 60GPH at that pressure. It was easy to install on the factory hanger.

Spectra Premium SP1138 Electric Fuel Pump
https://ecat.spectrapremium.com/en/parts/SP1138

It was only about $25 when I bought it 5 years ago. Has gone up a few dollars since then.

The Spectra Premium Str01 Strainer fits too.

[Jim1855]

Ran a carb'd 427 in previous cars, same motor will go into the Challenge Car.

Mechanical pump, Aeromotive bypass regulator and return lines. Worked well. I had problems with fuel percolating and building pressure, a heat thing, and blowing past the needles. Tried many things but the bypass and return lines solved the problem. This will be the new set-up as well.

I am a bit perplexed though. Ted G, you mentioned other motors, huh??? There are motors other than a carb'd 427? Wow, learn something every day.

Jim

[Ted G]

Thanks everyone, this is good info and I even feel better about my "carbed" choice.


Ted

[CaptB]

If you want to have an option of EFI and only run one line forward I recommend this:

https://www.breezeautomotive.com/shop/fuel-filter-regulator-and-single-line-kit-for-sniper-in-roadster/

And this:

https://www.breezeautomotive.com/shop/155-lph-in-tank-efi-fuel-pump-with-3-8-outlet/

It has a regulator set up where you only need to run one line forward and the return line is near the tank. This is easy peasy to set up and install.

[Ted G]

If you want to have an option of EFI and only run one line forward I recommend this:

https://www.breezeautomotive.com/shop/fuel-filter-regulator-and-single-line-kit-for-sniper-in-roadster/

And this:

https://www.breezeautomotive.com/shop/155-lph-in-tank-efi-fuel-pump-with-3-8-outlet/

It has a regulator set up where you only need to run one line forward and the return line is near the tank. This is easy peasy to set up and install.

Thanks CaptB! Have you used this? Seems like a good option..... Now I guess I'll spend another $400 with Mark Reynolds. LOL

[CaptB]

Thanks CaptB! Have you used this? Seems like a good option..... Now I guess I'll spend another $400 with Mark Reynolds. LOL

I have. I was kinda not sure about the complexity but I can take some pics, show you what I did and there a quite a few folks that have gone this route. Heck I'm into Mark probably $1800-2K!

Capt. B

[Steve in Snohomish]

I too ran a return line Incase One day I went with EFI. However, I ran the provided 1/4" return line. Which is undersized for most aftermarket EFI systems. Make sure you run a pair of future proof 3/8" or higher lines.

That said, I'm running a dead headed 600cfm carb on a mild 302. Not sure how much pump your 427 will need, but I have an electric in tank pump that makes 6psi at my carb without a regulator. It's supposed to be able to supply 60GPH at that pressure. It was easy to install on the factory hanger.

Spectra Premium SP1138 Electric Fuel Pump
https://ecat.spectrapremium.com/en/parts/SP1138

It was only about $25 when I bought it 5 years ago. Has gone up a few dollars since then.

The Spectra Premium Str01 Strainer fits too.

This looks good. Does it come with good instructions to mount to the FFR fuel pickup?