Photography by Tim Suddard
We’ve been working diligently to restore our Elva Mk VI sports racer to factory conditions, returning it to its 1962 Sebring trim.
But we did deviate a little from stock while finishing the fuel system.
How so? The fuel pump.
But hear us out.
Elva most likely fit an SU electric fuel pump, but they’re a little pricey and, once installed, totally hidden from view. Instead, we chose a common Carter P4070 vane-type fuel pump. At about a hundred bucks from Summit Racing, it cost a third the price of the SU piece. We also figured that should we have an issue, this pump will be easier to replace.
The Carter P4070 vane-type fuel pump
Our Weber carburetors run at about 3 psi of fuel pressure, so we needed a regulator as well. We’ve had bad luck with cheaper, rotary knob fuel pressure regulators. Summit offers trusted Holley 12-804 fuel pressure regulators for about $47 each.
The Holley 12-804 fuel pressure regulator
After installing our restored fuel cell, we cut down the enclosed fuel pump bracket and welded it to the frame. We could then attach the pump onto the frame rails with the rubber mounts that came with the pump.
We then attached the fuel pressure regulator to the firewall, right between the pump and the carburetors. We wanted to place the regulator somewhere it was easy to view and adjust. Once we paint the frame, we’ll plumb everything with period-correct hose and clamps.
Always worth re-examining electric fuel pump replacements other than OEM. Case in point, my 1979 Ferrari 308 GTS wasn't running quite right & had wiring issues with the Facet pump - I replaced it with an AC Delco & simplified the wiring connections. Runs like a charm!
Wow - I used to sell SU pumps for $45! Of course that was around 50 years ago.......
I used a Holley Red Top in one of my project cars - very reliable!
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