Classic/Antique Car Repair: Engine Cuts Out, pontiac bonneville, fuel gauge

Question
I have a '65 Pontiac Bonneville with a 389 4 barrel carb with 62k original miles. This car is in good shape over all. My engine cut out, would not start and I had to be towed home. I have not trusted my fuel gauge so I filled the tank with about 15 gallons of gas and added some dry gas. I started it today and idled it in the driveway for about 30 minutes after taking it around the block. I suddenly started sputtering and then died. Is the mechanical fuel pump my # 1 suspect? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Ward:
Your fuel pump sound suspect. However, you may need to try a few more things to pinpoint the problems. If you idled for 30 minutes, that could mean the fuel pump is working enough to support idling. Start her up from could and try driving her immediately and see if she will take the gas. If not it could be anything from a clog fuel filter to a clog fuel line to the fuel pump. You will have to check all three. Make sure the fuel filter is not old and clogged. This would cause good idling but bad performance just like the fuel pump.