Replaced mechanical fuel pump w/ new

[Chris Baranyar]

Replaced my 2003 mercruiser 3.0L engine with a new long block and carburetor. All other components moved from old motor to new block.When original pump was not drawing fuel. New pump was added. New fuel pump was added with the addition of a water separator in the line between pump and tank. Still no draw of fuel when cranking engine. I was able to draw fuel from tank with vacuum, therefore I know the pickup tube is into the fuel in the tank. The new pump came with a 3/16 thick steel spacer with gaskets on each side. My original fuel pump had only a paper gasket. Could the spacer be limiting the lever stroke on the pump? Do I need to prime the line through the water separator prior to starting the engine?

Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Rick Stephens]

Fuel pump cam worn off on the camshaft?

 

[Chris Baranyar]

The replacement engine is brand new. I looked through the pump mounting hole and see a flawless eccentric cam

 

[Rick Stephens]

Gotcha. Any chance yer suckin air?

I'd be peeing red if I dropped a new long block in and couldn't get it going right then and there. So I am right with you on getting it going.