Fuel pump: electric or mechanical?

[acdc96]

My 1986 mercruiser 260hp V8 is in need of a new fuel pump. The one in it right now is a carter electric fuel pump that keeps blowing fuses and I don't know why it's doing that. So I can either replace the fuel pump with another electric one ($80) or I could switch to a mechanical fuel pump. Most people with this engine have mechanical pumps in them. Is it worth it to stick with the electric or go to a mechanical pump? Also if anyone knows why it keeps popping fuses and can save me a few $$$ It would be very helpful and apreiated! The fuse is a 10A it pops after 2 or 3 minutes. Also, it's draws a notable amount of power on the gauge. 13v when disconnected less the 10v when on. Thanks in advace!!!

 

[Bt Doctur]

Most likely the fuel had some water in it and caused the pump to be damaged. You want to measure the amps it draws, not the voltage drop.
the way most are wired there is no seperate fuel pump fuse. Do you mean you blowing the ign main fuse?

 

[alldodge]

The electric would be the easiest to replace and cost would be about the same, so I would stick with electric. It's blowing the fuse because the windings are shorting out, my guess is it won't be long before it stops all together

 

[Bt Doctur]

Except there is the fuel pump fuse until you get into the fuel injected motors