1982 Corvette - Fuel Pump Replacement (using 85 pump)
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3rd Gear
Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 3
Likes: 4
From: NJ
1982 Corvette - Fuel Pump Replacement (using 85 pump)
I've had my 1982 Corvette for 30+ years and just replaced the fuel pump (and sender unit) this past weekend. The car has been hesitating for a while now under hard throttle from a stop so I finally decided to do something about it. After researching forums and such, it became clear it was the fuel pump. I documented the procedures, including links to items purchased, as well as photos and videos and tips. I went with a 1982 fuel sender unit (no pump) with a 1985 fuel pump. No change to throttle bodies or regulator was necessary. Before the upgrade, the fuel pressure was about 8-9 psi with drops to 6-7 psi under throttle so this confirmed problems with the fuel pump. After the upgrade, the fuel pressure now remains at a steady 11-13 psi at idle as well as under throttle. The difference in performance was remarkable, the car has never run so good in 30+ years I've had her. Now, when I step on the gas, the tires light up in both 1st gear and also when it shifts into 2nd gear. The car has never done that since I've had her. Additionally, when I turn the ignition, she now starts up immediately instead of having to crank for a few seconds. Highly recommend the fuel pump upgrade (using 1985 pump) for anyone else with similar symptoms.
Anyway, I thought I would document the steps and contribute the information back to the community. Here's a document which has everything you need to do it yourself.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1...it?usp=sharing
Anyway, I thought I would document the steps and contribute the information back to the community. Here's a document which has everything you need to do it yourself.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1...it?usp=sharing
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 3,532
Likes: 1,185
From: Arizona - If you don’t know CFI, STOP proliferating the myths around it...
I've been saying this very thing for at least 30 years now, where ya been? 
I would also highly suggest that you do a complete rebuild of both TBs since you went with the 85-87 pump. The diaphragms are the weak link. Do one at a time, so you don't mix the parts up, they are different. BTW, the "magic"number for FP for a stock motor is a rock steady 13psi. At that pressure, which is GM range, not mine, it should run like the wind and pull to redline in every gear. Also, while your at it, replace the rubber lines at the top of the tank, they get brittle after 39 years and will also cause issues with your fuel delivery. Enjoy your new found power. 
I would also highly suggest that you do a complete rebuild of both TBs since you went with the 85-87 pump. The diaphragms are the weak link. Do one at a time, so you don't mix the parts up, they are different. BTW, the "magic"number for FP for a stock motor is a rock steady 13psi. At that pressure, which is GM range, not mine, it should run like the wind and pull to redline in every gear. Also, while your at it, replace the rubber lines at the top of the tank, they get brittle after 39 years and will also cause issues with your fuel delivery. Enjoy your new found power.
Last edited by Buccaneer; Apr 26, 2021 at 06:18 PM.
