Warmed over 71 Cutlass convertible, 350/350, QJet, 3.42 posi, duals, etc

I had a RobbMc pump but it was a no-start due to A/C bracket structural problems.

Some folks here and elsewhere rave about the Airtex 40736 with the vapor return outlet plugged.

Why plug it rather than use a 2 line pump?

Why that particular part number?

Will I have any A/C bracket clearance problems?

I assume a fuel regulator as close to the carb as possible would be advisable.

The fuel filter goes before the regulator?

I'll probably think of some more inane questions later...but thanks in advance for now.

C.J.

 

Your 350 shouldn't have a return line. If you look in the Cutlass Assembly manual, 455 and performance models had the return line.

Unless you installed the lines and fuel sending unit, in which case i digress. I installed a brand new ACDelco single line fuel pump and it works great.

 

I know that I don't have a return line.

I'm just wondering why people go for that particular pump just to block the 3rd port rather than buy a 2 port to start with.

C.J.

 

Maybe it's a fashion statement... I'd be more worried about that 3rd plug bursting and spraying fuel all over my 180 degree engine bay...

I remember joe talking about being 'able' to use a return fuel pump on a non return car.

Do we know if they have the same pressure rating? I don't have the assembly manual handy right now to check it out..

 

The 40736 is the highest volume mechanical pump available short of the RobbMc. But, as you found out, the RobbMc is a big-body pump which has clearance issues in some applications. So people with high-performance engines but clearance issues (like from Edelbrock heads or factory A/C) run the 40736. The purpose of plugging the return is to raise the fuel pressure slightly. It's not necessary to plug the return unless you don't have a return line. I ran a 480hp 468 BBO with a Holley Dominator carb in my '67 442 with a 40736 pump for one season and didn't have any issue with fuel delivery - just to give you an idea of that pumps capability.

 

That's what I was hoping to hear.

Thanks.

C.J.