I have a 69 vista cruiser, that’s been in my garage, for 21 yrs, I’ve cleaned the tank and put in fresh fuel. I disconnected the fuel line at the carb, then added an extension hose, so o could pump fuel through it to clean out fuel line from tank to carb. I’ve turned the engine over several times, but can’t get any fuel to come out of the fuel lines. What would you think bad fuel pump or clogged line, the car ran just fine when I parked it, 21 yrs ago. Or does it just take awhile for the mechanical fuel pump to pump fuel up, or does it need primed. Any help would be appreciated. 350 rocket engine

 

More than likely the diaphragm in the pump has dried out and cracked. Time for a trip to the parts store. Don't throw out the old pump
they can be restored. Good for someone needing the right part # for their resto.

 

How long did you crank the engine? When mine sits for a long time, it can take 30 or more seconds of cranking to get fuel to the carb so it will start. I’ve changed to filling the carb fuel bowl through the vent tube to get it to fire immediately. Once the engine is running, the pump draws fuel quickly.


Also could be a leak in the line between the tank and the pump. Any leak would allow air in and prevent pulling fuel from the tank.

You can connect a hose to the fuel pump input, stick the other end into a gas can, and see if the pump will draw fuel.

 

Ya kinda what I was thinking. And yes I’ll hang onto the old pump

 

I crank off and on, for probably 50 revolutions and notta. I’m assuming the pump went bad sitting for 21 yrs. But I may try your technique.

 

After 21 years sitting, do yourself a favor and change the pump regardless of whether it comes to life. Chances are it won't last much longer anyway.

 

Fixed, I pressurized system by back blowing air through fuel line which pressurized gas tank, then released pressure and gas flowed back through all, which primed the system now I’ve got good flow when starting