55.2-59 1959 Chevy Apache Short Step "Goldilocks"

[daveshilling]

I learned that the mechanical fuel pump is a flow-through, meaning if its not pumping, gas will still flow through it if the inlet is pressurized. This means I can easily add an inline electric fuel pump and filter tucked into the frame rail but still keep the mechanical pump.

Their pressure is not cumulative, so the electric pump can be used to prime, and in the event the mechanical pump stops working, can be used as the main pump instead. Still deciding if I will take the easy road and just wire it to a switch/relay, or go for a more complicated setup that fills the bowls automatically during startup.

I cleaned up the factory fuel line since its in good shape, trimmed it down, added a 5/16 flare nut and flared the line, and integrated the filter and pump. I can use the rest of the factory hard line to route from the electric to mechanical pump, or allow for more engine movement and use fuel line instead. The hard line worked for 60 years, so I imagine it will work for 60 more.