Mechanical fuel pump questions

[NGC414]

Im a little embarresed to ask but have mostly only messed the EFI stuff. I am re-insatlling the fuel pump on the 440 in my 68 charger. I can feel the pin inside the engine that moves the little fuel pump arm. I imagine I need to slide that up before installing the fuel pump?
How far is that arm on the fuel pump supposed to move? I can only move it maybe 1/16th of an inch. If I push it really hard it moves maybe another 1/16th inch. Not sure if I should replace it or not.

[GunMetal]

If that pin is inside the block it's up against the cam eccentric and probably wont move very much at all. With the engine running the eccentric "wobbles" pushing that rod against the moveable arm in the pump causing the diaphragm to fill and empty the pump chamber. sounds like you're good. I'll check to see what that push rod length should be.

[GunMetal]

If that pin is inside the block it's up against the cam eccentric and probably wont move very much at all. With the engine running the eccentric "wobbles" pushing that rod against the moveable arm in the pump causing the diaphragm to fill and empty the pump chamber. sounds like you're good. I'll check to see what that push rod length should be....Found it.. 3 1/4" end to end.

Geez! still trying to figure this posting stuff out

[greenpigs]

    Try Mancini's for a new rod, $10 I think. You should be able to start the bolts & the arm will move in, unless your running a HV pump which is HARD to push in. Rotate the motor till the rod moves up some, no plugs and ratchet on the crank bolt.

[NGC414]

Im not sure if im understanding correctly. The rod that is inside the engine should not move much? I can move it up about 1.5 inches with my finger and it slides back down easily.

Just FYI: The engine is a 440 dated 1975. The fuel pump appears to be just a stock replacement.

[b5blue]

  Yeah your fine, they slide out of the hole. Stick some grease on your finger and rub it on the pushrod then slide it up. The grease will hold the pushrod up long enough to get the lever end under it. Then you can start the bolts and work the pump to the block compressing the spring loaded lever more and more. 

[dstryr]

Or, turn out the threaded plug just above the fuel pump opening hold the pushrod up while installing the pump.  I agree with b5, the grease usually works but sometimes it is just tricky to get the pushrod to stay.

[NGC414]

Thanks for the help, I got the pump installed tonight.

One more question: this car also had a electric fuel pump mounted in the trunk. Is it common for people to run 2 fuel pumps?

[Paul G]

Two fuel pumps is not common on a street/strip car in my experience. I have removed an electric pump and went back to mechanical twice now. Mechanical pumps are simpler and work very well.