I have my tank dropped to replace my fuel sending unit. It's a single 3/8" line unit. I was wondering if I should purchase a unit with a fuel return to prevent vapor lock. It has me worried that with the hot Atlanta climate and stop and go driving, that wife could get stranded. I want to do what ever I can to make this as safea vehicle for her as I can. I found return lines in the classic catalog and a new fuel pump doesn't appear to be all that expensive. Is this something I should do and is it something I can do? My knowledge of cars comes from sites like this. It's very basic, but I'll research things to death and try anything if I feel I can do it.
This site is great, thanks for your help. Sorry I don't really have anything to add to the board myself. Someday perhaps.
The vapor return line setup came from the factory on 400s and AC cars. I can only speculate why but I suspect it had something to do with the need for extra fuel delivery. The single line system on the 350 cars works fine as long as that's what it's used on. The only heat issues with this setup might come from an owner modification, such as adding headers or if the fuel line has been moved closer to any exhaust components. As long as everything is in it's stock configuration you should be fine. No worries.
The A/C cars got it because of the extra heat (and that was when they were new and pump gas was worth a dam!). You might be ok without it but I think it's a good idea if its under consideration.
my car was born a 350, has no return fuel line...is currently , since over 14 yrs, a 400 , never had any vapor lock issues since I bought it 12 yrs ago.....and its run here in Hot Houston, Texas
If you were going to put in a new fuel line then I might consider it because they take the same paths. If not, I wouldn't unless you have a known issue. Too much work.
I was having the same issue, I relocated the fuel line from between the timing civer and PS pump, it was runing up this area. In 1967, my Car had a Carter AFB the fuel line went around the PS pump and up and 90'd to the Carb it is steel all the way up to the carb except for the filter, and my problem seemed to go away, also I found several vacuum leaks. Insulating is a good idea too. I also replaced the Water Pump with a new one(not rebuilt) had a better impeller on it and closed up the gap between the impeller and back plate as I was instructed by everyone here.
that reminds me...my fuel line ran very close to the exhaust...I tie strapped it up so line and filter are behind the fan...gets a little extra cooling
