Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your Classic 428 Engine

Changing the fuel pump on a 1968 428 engine is a complex process that requires careful attention to detail. The fuel pump is located on the front passenger side of the engine and is attached to the timing cover. To replace it, one must first loosen the hose clamp connecting the rubber fuel tank supply line to the fuel pump and plug the line with a 3/8-inch bolt. The carburetor supply line must also be removed, and a small amount of fuel will leak out. The two bolts holding the pump to the timing cover can then be removed, and the pump can be pulled away from the cover. It is important to note that the eccentric on the camshaft will be pushing against the fuel pump arm, so one must be careful when removing the pump. The gasket on the timing cover should also be cleaned and replaced if necessary. When installing the new fuel pump, it is important to coat the gasket surfaces with gasket sealer and to tighten the bolts gradually and evenly to avoid damaging the pump. The carburetor supply line and fuel tank supply line can then be reattached, and the engine can be started to check for leaks.

Loosen lines before the pump

To loosen the lines before the pump on a 1968 428, you'll need to follow these steps:

Firstly, identify the type of fuel line connector you have. There are several different styles, each with its own method of disconnection. Common types include the push-type, push-and-lock, pinch-type, spring-style retainer, hose and clamp style, and horseshoe-type connectors. Knowing which type you have will make the process easier and help you avoid damaging the lines or connectors.

For push-type connectors, you simply push from one or both sides to release, depending on the version. With push-and-lock connectors, you need to release the safety latch and push the connector back through. Pinch-type connectors require you to pinch the retainers on each side together to disconnect. Spring-style retainer fittings have a black ring that serves as a release tool; pull it back toward the fitting and then remove the line.

If you have a hose and clamp style fitting, typically used for emissions lines, use pliers to pinch the clamp together, slide it back, and then pull the line off. Another variation of the pinch-type connector is often found in emissions lines; to remove this, simply pinch both sides. For horseshoe-type fittings, use a screwdriver to pull the horseshoe up and out.

Once you have identified the type of connector and released the lines, you can move on to the next step in the fuel pump replacement process. Remember to work carefully and take your time to avoid damage and ensure a proper connection.

Remove and plug lines

To remove and plug the lines of a fuel pump, you will need to follow these steps:

First, locate the fuel pump on the front passenger side of the engine, attached to the timing cover. Place a drain pan underneath the fuel pump to catch any spillages. Loosen the hose clamp where the rubber fuel tank supply line connects to the fuel pump. You can use a flat-head screwdriver to do this. Pull the line off the fuel pump fitting and immediately plug it with a 3/8-inch bolt.

Next, use a wrench to remove the carburetor supply line. Some fuel will leak out of the line, so be prepared to catch this with your drain pan. If you wish to replace the fuel filter, now is the time to do so. Simply loosen the hose clamps on each end of the filter and remove the rubber lines.

Now, you can focus on the fuel pump itself. Remove the two bolts that hold the pump onto the timing cover and pull the pump away from the cover. As you do this, you may feel some resistance from the eccentric on the camshaft pushing against the fuel pump arm. Once the pump is removed, check the timing cover and scrape off any remaining residue with a putty knife. Clean the gasket surface of the timing cover with a shop rag and some parts cleaner.

At this point, you have successfully removed the old fuel pump and can begin the process of installing a new one.

Remove bolts and the old pump

To remove the bolts and the old pump, you will need to first loosen the lines before loosening the pump at the timing cover. Remove the fuel lines by loosening the hose clamp where the rubber fuel tank supply line attaches to the fuel pump. Plug the line with a 3/8-inch bolt to prevent fuel leakage.

Next, use a wrench to remove the two bolts that hold the pump onto the timing cover. You may need to exert a little pressure on the pump to hold it in position as you do this. Once the bolts are removed, pull the pump away from the timing cover.

Now, remove the old gasket from the timing cover, scraping off any remaining material with a putty knife. Clean the gasket surface with some parts cleaner and a shop rag.

At this point, you have successfully removed the old pump and are ready to install the new one.

Clean the surface

To clean the surface of the fuel pump on a 1968 428 engine, follow these steps:

Firstly, park your vehicle on a levelled, paved surface and engage the parking brake. This is important to ensure the vehicle doesn't move during the cleaning process. Next, locate the fuel pump on the front passenger side of the engine, attached to the timing cover. Place a drain pan underneath the fuel pump to catch any spillages.

Now, we can begin the cleaning process. Loosen the hose clamp where the rubber fuel tank supply line connects to the fuel pump. You can use a wrench for this step. Once loosened, pull the line off the fuel pump fitting. It is important to note that a small amount of fuel may leak out of the line, so be prepared to plug the line with a 3/8-inch bolt.

With the fuel line removed, you can now access the fuel pump and its surrounding surfaces. Use a putty knife to scrape away any remaining residue or material from the timing cover and gasket surface. Be thorough with this step to ensure a clean surface for the new gasket.

Take a shop rag and spray it with parts cleaner. Wipe down the gasket surface of the timing cover to remove any remaining dirt or grease. It is important to ensure that the surface is completely clean and free of debris before installing the new gasket and fuel pump.

Once you are satisfied with the cleanliness of the surface, you can move on to the next steps of replacing the fuel pump, following the instructions provided in the previous response.

Put a new gasket on the new pump

When putting a new gasket on the new pump, it is important to use a gasket sealant. Gaskets should be coated on both sides with a gasket sealer, and then mounted on the fuel pump. A very small amount of sealer should be smeared on both sides of the gasket, just enough to make it tacky.

Some recommend using a spray-on, high-tack gasket sealant, as it helps with the seal and makes it easier to get the pump back on. Others recommend Gasgacinch or Indian Head Gasket Shellac. A small amount of engine oil can also be used as a safe lubricant.

It is important to note that if you are not using an OEM, dealer-supplied gasket, but rather an aftermarket gasket, this could cause problems with installation. The aftermarket gasket may be too thick, or there may be enough difference in the compression of the gasket under load to make installation difficult.

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