Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1964 PONTIAC CATALINA-389, pontiac catalina, inspection mirror

Question
I have the original 389 engine w/AC inside my 1964 Pontiac Catalina.  I replaced my fuel pump and there is still no fuel coming from the fuel pump to the carburetor.  Could my problem be that my Fuel Pump Eccentric is bad?

Answer
It could be but you can check it several different ways. My test is to disconnect the fuel inlet line at the pump. Connect a vacuum gage to the inlet side of the pump and crank the engine over. You should see 11 or so inches of vacuum at the inlet side of the pump. If you see 11 inches then the problem is in the fuel line or the tank. No vacuum or weak vacuum the problem is the pump or the eccentric. To check the eccentric remove the pump and use an inspection mirror to look into the timing case cover. The fuel pump can be bench tested with the vacuum gage connected to the inlet side and work the lever. Again look for about 11 inches of vacuum.
Brad