Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1948 Fleetline fuel pump, fleetline, unidentified object


Question
My 48 has been sitting for about 6 months in my garage and when I try to start it will turn over. It will actually start if I put starting fluid in the carb but wont stay on. I replaced the inline fuel filter but I dont see gas flowing to the carb. I made sure the car has gas. I am thinking the fuel pump is bad. Also, where is the fuel pump located? I see that the previous owner replaced a few items on the fuel line. I assume the pump is one of the items I see.

Answer
The fuel pump on your car is supposed to be a mechanical pump. It is located on the side of the block near the front right (passenger) side of the engine. The fuel line runs from the tank to the pump and then from the pump to the carburetor. Now this is how the car was built. It is possible that the previous owner modified and added an electric pump. If that is the case I have no idea where it is. You will need to get some one to eye ball it or just follow the fuel lines. If there is an unidentified object in the line and it has an electrical wire running to it that could be an electric fuel pump. I it has an electric fuel pump it should be installed as close to the fuel tank as possible if it is installed correctly.