My 87 TA currently has a near stock 350, with the computer controlled Quadrajet that came with the car. The engine is 87 or newer, likely out of a TBI truck or Caprice. For some reason, the previous owner installed one of the "universal" electric fuel pumps (parts store generic type), and I want to do away with it. Electric pumps don't pull fuel very well, and this one is putting out a little too much fuel at idle (will flood out in traffic) . I could put a regulator on it, but I want to fix it right.
From what I understand, this car has a helper pump in the tank and had a mechanical pump, which the previous owner removed at some point. I would like to put a mechanical pump back on it, but I'm not sure if the TBI cams have a fuel pump eccentric (suspect they do, but I don't know for sure). Also, if I go with a good mechanical pump, should i leave the in-tank helper pump in place? This car is going to be completely stripped down soon for a full rebuild, but I want to make it a little more reliable in the meantime, without making a lot of major changes (since nothing is going to be reused with the 455).

 

What's wrong with a regulator? Considering all the people out there that run one, myself included (mallory #4309), I don't see what makes it "not right."

Not sure about the pump eccentric, so can't help you there. You can leave the helper pump. You could also take it out. Factory's intention was to reduce vapor lock. Judging by the fact that you have a TBI cam, I see no reason it needs to come out, unless it isn't working.

 

Sorry, I didn't mean that there was anything wrong with running a regulator...my problem is more with the mickey mouse fuel pump. I don't trust it, and would rather go to a stock type pump if I can, since the engine doesn't need a higher output pump. Considering the car is mostly stock, I'd prefer to just put a stock mechanical pump on it (which would need no regulator) if possible. I was mainly wanting confirmation that the eccentric is there (getting a pump pushrod and pump is no big deal;I just want to be sure there is something there to drive it).

 

Try asking down in the TBI section. Shifty and co. are pretty bright down there.