New Fuel Pump Question 350ci

[C10Silverado79]

I replaced a fuel pump on 250ci 6cyl 20 years ago and it was a 'no brainer' install. Looking at my manual, it says the 350's have some kind of connecting rod that activates the fuel pump. Are there any special steps or tricks in need to follow to replace the pump? Will the rod 'self center' against the fuel pump or do I need to align it somehow?

TIA
Steve

[ont_guy_38]

When you remove the old pump the rod will probably slide down and you will see it , sometimes they are so gummed up they stay up but anyways you have to make sure it is up to get the new pump in . Just hold it up with your finger

[bigarmzz]

to get the rod to stay up in there, i've always used just a "dab" of bearing grease to cause the rod to stay put

done it this way for years without a hitch

[C10Silverado79]

If the rod is dropped down will it prevent the pump from installing or will it install anyway. I don't want to install it wrong and then really hose it up when I crank the motor.

[bikes&bowties]

nope the rod will be in the way and the little "lever" on the pump wont go into location. it will make perfect sense when you pull it apart and see it. Good luck

[hotrod_991]

yes the rod will stop the lever on the fuel pump from going up. I have always taped the end of a small flat tip screwdriver so there is not metal showing and if the rod falls when you romove the pump. us the taped end of the screwdriver to push it back up enough to get a finger under it then slide the lever in. Its really simple once you look at it. Good Luck

[crm318]

I have put a small bit of silicone (I was already using it on the gasket) on the pushrod and it works every time.

[C10Silverado79]

I put the new pump on last night. It wasn't too difficult (as long as I did it right) I have some more things to put back together on the motor before I can turn it over.

Thanks for the advise.