'37 Special Fuel Pump

[70sWagoneers]

First of all, is this the correct fuel pump for a 1937 Special 248ci? And if so, does anyone know someone who might have a replacement fuel pump arm. Mine has been roughly welded on. My next option is to buy a correct pump to fabricate a correct arm and fix my "original". Would the arm be made or hardened steel?

 

There is the number 9304 on pump flange, the number 51 inside a circle, and what looks like 521467 on the lever arm.

 

 

 

Thanks

James C.

[MCHinson]

I would suspect that someone welded that to either unsuccessfully try to repair an underperforming fuel pump, or else to overcome a significantly worn cam lobe that was not moving the fuel pump arm enough. 

 

If I was in that situation, I would probably try a reproduction fuel pump such as this one: https://www.kanter.com/content/Buick/kanter_Buick_1937_Fuel_Pumps_4177.html

[70sWagoneers]

Yes, I agree. The cam was not worn. My goal is stock restoration so I would like to fix mine IF it is correct and original. Ive just found that Bob's Automobilia will rebuild your pump, but I need to speak to them about my lever issue.

[MCHinson]

I think the Kanter is supposed to be an accurate reproduction of the original fuel pump. You may want to check with them. Other than that, rebuildable ones  can usually be found on ebay.

[Spinneyhill]

I don't know which engines the Buick models used, so here are all of them.

 

AC fuel pump book lists the late '35 & '36-37 Buick 40 with pump 1521854 (series W, type 423 although on another page it says 421). Rocker arm number 1521467.

'36-37-38 Buick 60, 80, 90 with pump 1521838 (series AB - with the vacuum pump included - type 422). Rocker arm number 1522071.

 

So that is not a correct pump for a 1937 Buick. The 9304 was not fitted OEM to any Buick up to 1952.

 

The arm you have was probably that required for a series 40, built up (too much) to replace wear.

 

[Dave39MD]

I would try these folks for the arm and rebuild kits. http://www.then-now-auto.com/

 

It looks like that is a later replacement with the air dome cast into the top cover. I have some 421 pumps, but they were rebuilt years ago and will need new diaphragms, if you get stuck looking for a good core. The one I looked at has the same arm number.

 

Dave 

[Dave39MD]

Here is a picture of the arm and air dome I mentioned. This is a 1521812. In addition to 35-39 40 series Buicks the arm fits 34-36 Chevrolet, Graham and others.

 

Dave

 

[Stooge]

3 hours ago, Dave39MD said:

I would try these folks for the arm and rebuild kits. http://www.then-now-auto.com/ .....

 

Dave 

 

I live in the next town over from them and drive by Then and Now all the time, they are very well regarded around here. they are very knowledgeable and although I have never used them for this, seem to have a respectable rebuild/ service they provide.

Happy to help if something is needed from them, its quite literally on the way to my shop!

[Spinneyhill]

Got it now. The right pump is type 423, which is the same as type 421. This is the interchange for that pump:

[70sWagoneers]

Here is another 9304 pump listed on ebay that is listed for 1935-38 series 40. Perhaps it is a superceded part???

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F162890770771

 

Thanks

James C.

[Dave39MD]

On AC pumps with four digit numbers like 9304 you add the number 153 in front to get the factory number - 1539304. This crosses to AC pump type or part number 421. The dome or cone shaped item on the top cover is cast in to the cover which makes it a later replacement. See my photo above, the dome screws on to the cover. Your pump and the ebay pump are correct in function for the car but not exactly what was on it when delivered.

 

Hope this helps.

 

Dave

[70sWagoneers]

Thanks everyone, your help is appreciated!

I'm going to stick with the pump Ive got if I can fix the lever arm.

So now my question is where might I find a replacement arm number 1521467 ?

 

Thanks

James C

Edited February 28, 2018 by 70sWagoneers (see edit history)

[Dave39MD]

Did you try Then and Now Automotive mentioned above? You could also true your arm flat but I am not sure what the welding has done to the metal. Maybe someone has a loose one.

 

Dave

[Spinneyhill]

Numbers like 1539304 seem to have come into use in the early '50s.

[MajesticDean]

is the gasket to mount the pump to the block  the same a as small block chevy it looks like it is but want to be sure i need to change imine as its leaking oil.

[Spinneyhill]

1 hour ago, MajesticDean said:

is the gasket to mount the pump to the block  the same a as small block chevy it looks like it is but want to be sure i need to change imine as its leaking oil.

Just take it off and make one out of 0.8 mm paper to suit the shape and openings.

 

It is the same as many vehicles that used that type pump. See the interchange list above. Did sbc use that style of pump?

Edited March 28, 2018 by Spinneyhill (see edit history)