PackardDon wrote:
I only ever had an electric pump in one Packard and only because it came with it (a 1953 Clipper Deluxe) and it was easier to leave it in. Some pumps have adjustable pressure so shut off when not needed while others just keep pumping. Mine was the diaphragm type which will still pass fuel through from the mechanical pump even when shut off but other types need to run all the time or they'll block the flow.

Bottom line is I can see no reason to install an electric pump and they may just be patches to cover another problem that needs addressing first. If the mechanical pump is in good condition, its valves should minimize fuel running back to the tank when sitting for periods of time.

I would, however, use a filter at all times and prefer the factory type if for nothing other than appearance. The modern in-line filters look odd to me in an old car.