Topic pretty much sums it up. I have an 82 that I recently resurrected after it hadn't been driven for five years. I cleaned out and coated the gas tank, replaced the fuel pump with a cheapie from Advance Auto and rebuilt the stock Nikki carb. It runs great now, idles fine, starts easy and runs smooth but it doesn't seem to have much power. It seems like many of you are using a fuel pressure regulator with aftermarket pumps. Just wondering if it's necessary if the car is running smooth. Would it help the power?
Thanks!

 

yes you do, it can put too much pressure into the floats and screw crap up. 3.5 psi is what you want for the average nikki carb, also its more about flow than absolute pressure.

 

dp

 

It depends on how much pressure the new pump puts out. The Holley's and Carter's most of us use produce upwards of 7psi so a pressure regulator is a must.

Try teeing a gauge into the main fuel line. If the pressure is any more than about 4.5psi then you'll probably need a regulator.

 

Anybody know where to get those small fuel pressure gauges that the old, American musclecars sometimes use in the fuel line going to the carbs? They are about 1-1/2" in diameter and fuel filled, as you can see the gasoline in the bezel between it and the needle. As the car is 'stoked', you can see the needle vary as the fuel flow catches up to the carb bowls.

Any help finding one? Sure would be handy for this purpose!