i did something really dumb...fuel pump

[bucket]

this is why i hate starting something simple, like replacing a fuel pump, one day, and finishing it a week later.

so last weekend i pull my pump to replace it and the line from the pump to carb. i ran out of time, so today i finish it up and start the motor to check for leaks. hear a faint strange squeeking / knocking sound. its cold out, figure the lifters.....then i see it....@%*k! the long bolt holding the pump rod is still in! i had snugged it just enough to hold the rod in place while replacing the pump but looking at the end of the bolt, i can see where it was grinding against the rod.

should i pull the pump, plate and check the rod? should i worry about having jacked up the cam? it seems to run fine after i put in the correct bolt.

[rage'nrat638]

pull the pump remove the rod and replace at the min.
if the rods all buggered up ..it will ware the block..and it's supposed to spin
and this might hurt the cam if it's not moving up and down freely

[Tx Firefighter]

You'll be fine. The push rod is about as big around as your index finger. Some scuffing shouldn't hurt it.

[Longhorn Man]

I would at least pop the pump off and inspect it all, and look for metal shavings in there too. Maybe slide the pushrod up and down int he bore checking for scuffing and if it'll spin.
you're probably OK, but if you don't look and it does do some damage, you'll feel pretty stupid.

[bucket]

thanx guys.

i'll run over to advance tomorrow and pick up a new rod and gaskets.

andy....already feel pretty stupid.

[Longhorn Man]

you shouldn't... it's an easy mistake when you take a week long break for work.

[bucket]

i pulled the rod and it looked great. it must be a lot harder than the bolt that went in. replaced it anyway since i had a new one and i was there.

should have seen the look on the parts guys faces when i asked for a fuel pump push rod (blank).

obviously worried needlessly, but i feel better.