Fuel pump problems / Should I fit a mechanical one?

[Lewisd]

After having loads of trouble with my fuel pump I was wondering if it would be a good idea to fit a mechanical pump off a mini as I have one spare in my garage?
Thanks,
Lewis

[mike.perry]

Your engine may not have a blanking plate to fit a mech. pump

[bmcecosse]

Fuel pumps are extremely reliable... So the problem is likely NOT with the pump... Check if the feed pipe is clear.

[kennatt]

They lasted 20 years + just fit a new su or refurb your old with a kit.

[MarkyB]

The beauty of the electric pump is that it will fill the pipe and carb up as soon as you turn on the ignition.
to get the same effect with the mechanical pump you have to churn the engine over.
Not much of an issue if you use the car every day, but a pain and a strain on the battery if you only use it every week or so.

[bmcecosse]

Can argue that the mech pump means that oil is circulated round the bearings before it starts to fire when the petrol arrives.... and it will eliminate the risk of 'the vapours'......

[MarkyB]

There you go, it's a feature.

[rayofleamington]

Some lasted for a mere 50+ years..

I would go for a working old unit rathner than a new one. Fit some new points to the old one and it would be almost back to new condition - if you're into overkill then maybe a new diaphragm, although I wouldn't promise that will last any better than an old one (i.e. you'd be better off waiting a lifetime for a potential diaphragm problem not to happen rather than fitting a new one just in case)

[JOWETTJAVELIN]

The beauty of the electric pump is that it will fill the pipe and carb up as soon as you turn on the ignition.
to get the same effect with the mechanical pump you have to churn the engine over.
Not much of an issue if you use the car every day, but a pain and a strain on the battery if you only use it every week or so.

On my Allegro (mech. pump) it fires within seconds, even after a few days. The mechanical pumps must have a greater 'draw' than the electric ones (though that is academic). The float bowl must retain some petrol as it can't completely evaporate.

[bmcecosse]

The pump sits low on the engine block - so it has flooded suction...... When awakening my TR7 after a long rest I prime the carbs by lifting the pistons and squirting petrol into them.