Fred's Series 23 fuel pump

Posted by Fred Puhn On 2013/10/4 10:13:51

I start out by defining the issues with my 1950 Packard Series 23 Deluxe 8 Touring Sedan:

1. The starter has to crank a long time to get started if the car was driven and sat for 2 or more weeks. It starts easily once I get it going or if it only sat for a day or 2.
2. The car will vapor lock on a hill on the freeway on a hot day.
3. The original heat shield over the fuel pump is missing. I want to car to look original.
4. The insulating sleeves and washers on the fuel pump bolts are mssing. This may be related to a clacking sound I get from the area of the fuel pump.

My first job is to plan the job:

1. Install an electric fuel pump near the tank to prime the carburetor for starting and perhaps to fight vapor lock while driving. The pump should be for occasional use so it needs a switch on the dash.
2. Install the original heat shield and insulating parts on the fuel pump.
3. Because of difficult access to the bottom of the engine I will remove the side plate on the engine compartment and work through the wheel well.
4. Since I have access I will check the valve adjustment and clean up that side of the engine.


Here is a more detailed list of steps:

1. Research the Packard Information threads to get comments on where and how to mount the fuel pump.
2. Collect all the parts needed for the job.
3. Mount the electric fuel pump on the car.
4. Find a location and mount a toggle switch under the dash.
5. Wire the switch to the pump and test it.
6. Clean and wash off the side of the engine compartment where work will be done.
7. Pull the wheel and side plate from the engine compartment. Paint the side plate and body panels where access permits.
8. Disconnect the fuel line from the pump, drain it, and cut the line near the tank.
9. Install filter and hoses to the fuel line.
10. Remove the fuel pump. Clean and paint the engine where access permits.
11. Fit check the heat shield. If necessary install a stud in the block to replace the rear mounting bolt on the pump. With the heat shield bracket in place this bolt is nearly inaccessable.
12. Install the fuel pump, insulating tubes and washers, and heat shield. Lock the fasteners with wire or use self locking nuts on studs.
13. Remove valve cover plate. Clean and paint it.
14. Check the valve adjustment cold. Adjust if necessary.
15. Install the valve cover plate.
16. Prime the fuel system with electric pump, start engine, and check for fuel leaks.
17. Test drive the car and check for fuel leaks.