big block fuel pump push-rod problem

[hemi68charger]

Hey gang..
Wishing to tap into the collective... I have a friend with a '68 Charger R/T. He's been going through push-rods for the fuel pump like no body's business. He replaced the purple-shaft cam he had in it for nearly 15 years. After that, he's gone through two different cams, two different fuel pumps and about 5 different fuel pump push rods. All situations end the same, the push rod is damaged and worn down. When he replaces the push rod, he claims it moves freely in the guide hole. One local suggestion is the oil he's putting in now has no zinc in it. They suggest Royal Purple.

Personally, I've been changing my oil over the years and have never had a push rod problem. There are countless 440 running around and I don't see a rash of fuel pump push rod failures....

Thanks for any insight.

[Just 6T9 CHGR]

When I first got my car about 15 years ago, MP had a rash of poorly heat treated rods that would wear down on both sides.   I had one of those in my 440 from the prev owner.   Luckily got it out with no trouble.   It was a full 3/4" shorter than the aftermarket replacement I used that has been going strong ever since....

[62 Max]

When I first got my car about 15 years ago, MP had a rash of poorly heat treated rods that would wear down on both sides.   I had one of those in my 440 from the prev owner.   Luckily got it out with no trouble.   It was a full 3/4" shorter than the aftermarket replacement I used that has been going strong ever since....

Are you sure about that 3/4" ? That long and I doubt you would get the pump on.

[Just 6T9 CHGR]

No the bad rod wore down 3/4"......car wouldnt start....

[wrench]

i also had a MP pushrod that prematurely wore down(500 miles). after removing it and inspecting it you could tell it wasn't properly heat treated. it was just a turned down mild steel rod. JUNK. i replaced with a used rod from a 383 and all is well except for the nagging feeling of having a 1/4" of rod metal filings swimming in my new engine 

[AKcharger]

I recall running into the same problem! I looked for my post but it was from '04 and on the old site  I remember the car would not start, and discovered the fuel pump was bad, so I changed it...and another...and another. Finally someone mentioned that push rod, replaced it and worked fine...who would have thought?