fuel pump water separator and carb question

[84EdH]

I have a 350 engine with a mechanical fuel pump from a 1995 350 mag alpha setup. There is a hose nipple on the fuel pump. My older 1979 had no such hose nipple. The old version had a sight glass with a stamped note in it saying "if gas appears in this bowl, replace the fuel pump". Now, on my new edelbrock 1409 carb, there is a hose nipple that is identified as a fuel pump vent. I presume the 1995 setup uses a hose connecting the fuel pump to the carb.

What type of hose connection do I need? what is this for? I know it says fuel pump vent, but none was their on the old style, wondering what changed? Does this have anything to do with the sight glass setup on the old fuel pump?

separate question: the fuel separator has a mounting bracket with an insulator plate. What is this insulator designed to do?

thanks

Ed

 

[8USMC4]

Re: fuel pump water separator and carb question

Ed,
Hey there! Just had those same questions answered for me recently. The older style fuel pumps had a sight glass, as you stated, to catch any fuel that may be spilled into the bilge if the diaphram on the pump failed. Fuel vapors in the bilge can cause an explosion. The newer systems have a drain nipple on the pump and one on the front of the carb. This is also how you can easily identify a marine application pump and carb. In the event that the pump fails, fuel is pumped up a CLEAR tube to be vented into the carb body for safety. If you see fuel or bubbles in this tube, replace the pump. Any automotive parts store can fit you with a few barb fittings and some clear tubing to run from the pump to the carb. As far as your fuel separator, the insulator on the bracket may be to dissipate heat from the separator as not to heat up the water and cause steam inside the separator. Thats an educated guess. Maybe another member can tell us for sure.
Hope I answered your question.
RP

 

[84EdH]

Re: fuel pump water separator and carb question

RP thanks for the info. it makes sense now.