71 fuel pump install issue

[hoovers71]

replacing mechanical fuel pump, did not anchor with longer bolt as was suggested in this forum. Saw the thread after the fact. I cannot seem to get the rod into the up position or to move at all. This is my first fuel pump install so i do not have a reference point of how much that rod should move, how to move it, and how easily it should move. How do I get this into the up position?

I have tried cranking it several times, appears not to be moving.

Any suggestions?

TIA

[Racer2172]

Remove the plate that the fuel pump bolts against and you will have access to the fuel pump push rod. You will be able to identify if its stuck or anything. It should slide out you can clean it up and inspect and reinstall. With the motor bumped over to allow it to seat farther in then you should be able to install a bolt as mention to get the pump installed. I normally use a little bit of tacky grease on the push rod that allow it to hold in place long enough to install the pump.

[54blackhornet]

Don’t feel bad it’s a ***** the first time you install a new fuel pump. The grease is a good trick to help keep the push rod out of the way while tightening the retaining bolts..

[68Gold/white]

I've used an old hacksaw blade (bent it)to get under the end of the push rod, and push it up. THen slip the arm of the pump in...

[geezer#99]

I’ve used a 4 inch common nail with the end bent to 90 degrees.
Hooked it on the bottom side of the rod and pushed it up.
Slipped a hacksaw blade in to keep it from sticking down.

And I’ve used an awl like this.

https://www.whitecap.com/MarMac-Manu...LMDKEA-104MWTT

[tdangle]

Your block also may have a bolt on the front of the block that lines up with the fuel pump rod. if so remove the bolt and install a longer bolt, push up on the fuel pump rod and them hand tighten the bolt. This will keep the bolt from dropping down while installing the fuel pump. When your done don't forget to remove the longer bolt and reinstall the short bolt, otherwise you will have an oil leak.

Also note, not all blocks have this hole drilled out. My GM crate engine didn't.

[CCCC]

Good advice above - may need to bump engine to get cam off the rod. Have used very skinny light angles pliers to hold the rod up long enough to get new pump arm under it and also have used shim material bent at about 90 degrees to slip under end of rod and hold it up - the sticky grease suggesteion above works well , too. Just be patient. If you have the hole in the front of the block, it;s the eaasy way. I don't even use a longer bolt - just ask my wife to hold a long punch in there to lock the rod in place.

[tdangle]

also forgot to mention when the rod is on the low side of the cam it will be maybe 1" from the top of the hole. I've been told that at TDC the rod is all the way up.

[ohboy321]

Originally Posted by 68Gold/white

I've used an old hacksaw blade (bent it)to get under the end of the push rod, and push it up. THen slip the arm of the pump in...

I did this, and also had to bump the motor to be able to get the rod in far enough.

This was my first time installing one, and after an hour of failing had to search the internet for a solution. It was funny once I got it installed.