Electric Fuel Pump Question

[Chris 69]

My '68 Charger has an electric fuel pump. The engine has been running fine until today.

Today, when I started the engine (383 4bbl) and the electric fuel pump is on, the engine runs very rough and belches smoke out the exhaust, due to running very rich. When I shut the fuel pump off the engine runs smooth until the gas in the carburetor runs out.

I do not race my car, so it is purely a street car. Currently, there is no fuel pressure regulator between the fuel pump and carburetor.

Should there be a fuel pressue regulator in the system?

Is my rough running condition due to the lack of a regulator or should my carburetor be adjusted or rebuilt?

Thanks,

Chris

[Jon Smith]

I'd say you need a regulator

[myk]

Yeah, I can imagine that 'lectric pump putting out more than 6psi, which is the limit for a carburetor, although you say that the motor's been running fine until now?  Hmmm....Maybe the carburetor just had enough...

[Chris 69]

Thanks for the replies.

The motor has been running fine for the past four months. I guess I will take the opportunity to put a mechanical pump in. A previous owner installed the electric pump. I find the pump sound to be annoying.

What could go bad in the carburetor as a result of the unregulated fuel pump?

Chris

[myk]

I'm only aware of running problems with excess fuel pressure, like flooding, running rich, stalling, etc.  Any physical damage may depend on the type of carburetor, such as those with power valves and such?  I still think it's odd that the car ran well up until now which obviously means that something gave out.  Someone else will chime in here.

I'd keep the electric pump myself, but only because I'm fascinated by "modernizing" old engines...

[Chryco Psycho]

you probably ahve some dirt in the needle/seats that is keeping it open , clean tham out & it should be fine again

[Chris 69]

Thanks for the help.

Chris