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  • 1938 Packard: Fuel Pump Pressure and Volume Test, Removing Carburetor
    		•
    From "Classic Car Restoration"
    episode DCR-404


    PHOTO

    Figure A
    In this episode of Classic Car Restoration, host Mark Lambert addresses the fuel system on the 1938 Packard Club Coupe. The fuel system is often the most misdiagnosed and misunderstood system on any car. In reality, if taken component by component, it’s quite simple. In this second segment of episode 404, Lambert evaluates the fuel pump (figure A) by performing both a fuel pressure test and a volume test. He then shows you how to remove your carburetor.

    Note: This is a summary of steps included in the automotive restoration procedures shown in this episode of Classic Car Restoration. These are general guidelines for restoration procedures on this particular make and model of vehicle, and for the level of restoration selected for this project. There may be variations in procedures depending model, condition of vehicle, level of restoration undertaken and the types of replacement parts or upgrade kits selected. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or kit that you select.

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    Materials:

    Fuel pump gauge
    Needle nose pliers

    Fuel Pump Pressure and Volume Test

    • To see whether or not a new fuel pump is needed, we had to do a fuel pump pressure test. When replacing your fuel pump, always lubricate the fuel pump arm. Use a fuel pump gauge (figure B) to check your fuel pump pressure. Hook it to your incoming fuel line (figure C). Then, hook up your dedicated fuel supply to run the engine and get your reading. A dedicated fuel system (figure D) is simply a fuel line attached to a small fuel tank with fresh gasoline.
      Photo

      Figure B
      		Photo

      Figure C
      		Photo

      Figure D

      • The fuel line is then attached to the carburetor (figure E). Hang your fuel supply and let the gravity feed fuel into the carburetor. Once the exhaust extension is installed, you’re ready to start your engine. Make sure it’s out of gear. Reach across and hit the starter motor and let the car idle (figure F). Packards want between 3-1/2 and 4-1/2 pounds of pressure. Switch off and check to see what the bleed off is. This is where your gauge comes in handy! If this bleeds down to zero, you need to replace your pump.
        Photo

        Figure E
        		Photo

        Figure F

        PHOTO

        Figure G

      • A volume test is just a simple, visual test that anybody can do. You need fuel pump volume to keep your carburetor full for those uphill pulls in this car. For this test, start your engine and rev it. When you release the fuel line, you should see a steady stream of gas (figure G). This means you have a good fuel pump!

        PHOTO

        Figure H

      Removing the Carburetor