1985 GT 150. Fuel pump question.

James R

Commander
Joined
Feb 1, 2007
Messages
2,679
This motor came to me with the VRO removed. In its place a single three tap pump 438557. B.N indicates that this pump is only good up to 100HP.The 1984 model B.N drawings show two pumps but does not show how they are connected. Is it possible to use the same two pump arrangement on the 1985 and if so how should they be connected. Also can the 438557 be utilized.
Thanks for all the help.
 

James R

Commander
Joined
Feb 1, 2007
Messages
2,679
Re: 1985 GT 150. Fuel pump question.

Sorry my boo boo. I should have said 1983 shows the two pumps. I can see how the pumps are connected fuel wise but how are they connected pulse wise. The Block only shows one "nipple". Assuming that this is the source of pulse power, and I am not sure of that, do they employ a tee after a check valve.
Really need help on this one.
 

emdsapmgr

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 9, 2005
Messages
11,551
Re: 1985 GT 150. Fuel pump question.

First off, you need to get original factory pumps for this engine. The upper and lower pumps are a different part number. Just because a pump looks similar does not mean it is equal. I would not run two of the same part number pump. The capacity of the OMC pumps varies, including the size of the nipples on the pump. Check out the original factory parts list and take the original part numbers to a dealer and they will give you the latest superceded part numbers. The latest number are: use 438559 as the upper pump and 393870 as the lower. These are for an 83 application. Yes, an original VRO engine will have just one pulse line fitting on the block. If you examine the block by the one pulse line outlet, you will probably see a screw/plug in the side of the block just above or below. Unscrew that plug and use that as the second port for the other pump. I think you will wind up removing the pulse line hose barb. Keep in mind you are mixing apples and oranges. The 85 VRO pump uses a hose barb to drive the pulse hose. The 83 has two ports on the block and both pumps bolt directly onto the block with an oval gasket. The 83 pumps above are two-port pumps to be bolted directly to the block (for the pulse line.)
 
Last edited:

James R

Commander
Joined
Feb 1, 2007
Messages
2,679
Re: 1985 GT 150. Fuel pump question.

Endsapmgr. Thanks for the help.I have ordered 438559 and 393870. These should be three port and will lend themselves to the '85 motor which has two pulse line barbs, one is capped, from two different cylinders. I will fashion a mount plate and hang them on the intake manifold. I can see where the VRO bracket was mounted as the two bolts are missing from the manifold. Piping should not present a problem.
Thanks once again and I will post the end result.
 

emdsapmgr

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 9, 2005
Messages
11,551
Re: 1985 GT 150. Fuel pump question.

johnson33.jpg Here is a pic of a typical (pre VRO) dual pump installation. 1983. You may find the original factory exploded parts diagram helpful. Check out this website: epc.brp.com After reviewing the factory list, I note that the pumps don't really mount flush to the powerhead with gasket. You are correct in that the pumps each have 3 ports-all with hose barbs.
 

James R

Commander
Joined
Feb 1, 2007
Messages
2,679
Re: 1985 GT 150. Fuel pump question.

Ok I have the motor rigged with two pumps. Both are 438559. The 393870 is a 438559 with a hooked hose and two ties as a kit. Same price from my supplier. This motor has the screw lugs for the two pumps cast into the manifold so no bracketry needed. Nice job.
Thanks for all your help emsapmgr.
I have a shift problem also but have started a new thread for that.
 
Top