Triumph Repair: Manual fuel pump replacement, electric pumps, vapor lock

Question
Hi...I have a 73 Spitfire with a 78 engine in it. Just trying to get my spitfire running after sitting up a bit.   It cranked about 3-4 months ago but now seems to not be getting fuel as it chokes continuously after being cranked.  I took the liberty of ordering a new MANUAL fuel pump since I know mine has now been replaced in quite a long while and am guessing this is probably the problem.  Although many of the experts suggest an electrical fuel pump over the mechanical, do you think I'll be okay with just the mechanical one....and any tips when installing.  It looks fairly easy in the manual.

Answer
Hi Linda,
There are "Pros" and "Cons" for both so it may come down to which you want. I can list the "Pros" and "Cons and let you make your decision.

Manual Pros
1. The car is already set up to use a manual pump.
2. The faster the engine turns, the faster the pump delivers fuel.
3. Fuel pressure is supplied by the return spring not the lever of the pump, thus pressure is constant
4. No electrical components to fail.

Manual Cons
1. More mechanical parts to ware out.
2. Pump subject to excess heat thus problems with vapor lock
3. One more load on the cam chain.
4. No automatic prime of fuel to the carburetor when starting.

Electric Pros
1. Pump can be located close to the tank so no loss of fuel prime
2. Pump can stay cool away from the engine to prevent vapor lock due to heat.
3. Automatic priming of the fuel to the carburetor even before the engine starts.
4. Easy to install several safety devices to shut engine off in case of loss of oil pressure or in case of an accident.

Electric Cons
1. Electric pumps can cost more and you must modify the lines and mounting of the pump.
2. You must do some electrical work depending on if you just want the pump to run or want added safety systems installed
3. You become the designer so you have to get the correct pump for the application (pressure an volume) and mounting and fittings.
4. You should add a relay to take the electrical load off of the Ignition circuit when installing.

If you were to ask me what I prefer, I would have to say "I prefer electric pumps because of all of the safety features and the elimination of vapor lock on hot summer days.
I hope this gives you some insight on pumps.
Howard