Pinto Car Club of America

Have a question, I have low fuel pressure on the old 73  2.0 runabout 2.0psi at idle. It drops to almost zero when pulling a hill or fast acceleration. I measured the pump push rod travel and it was to spec .0189-.209, mine having .200. I put on a new pump but got the same pressures. The Question,  Is there suspose to be a 1/4 inch spacer between the block and pump? My 2.0 has one is this causing the trouble and if I remove it will the travel do damage to the pump?

I could just try it but would rather do non distructive testing.

Pintojoe

The Ford parts catalog lists a 1/4" thick gasket, but no spacer.