Temporary gas tank under fuel pump

[central52]

Hi, I'm ready to start car, but before I fill up gas tank, I want to run a hose to a small can underneath the fuel pump to see first if it will start. I read in a post a while ago to run a flexible rubber hose from the fuel pump down into a small can of gasoline. But, I talked to someone who said the can should be above the fuel pump. He said that gravity is supposed to help. So, where should I run it? Above or below the fuel pump? And if above, does it have to look like an intravenous set-up like in the hospital? Calling Dr. Kildare, calling Dr. Kildare. (For those of your over sixty). Ed P.

[1948Skip]

Gravity is good. Think about it. Were is the tank?, between the frame rails. The pump being on the down side of the engine and lower then the tank.

Skip

[oldmopar]

I do not think it matters if you are using the fuel pump but I do run a few vehicles in my yard out of a can. I use a 1 gallon gas can and usually put it on the the frame next to the inner fender

[RobertKB]

I have run several engines with the temporary fuel tank (container) sitting on the floor. A fuel pump is designed to suck gas from the back of the car to the front and will certainly suck it from a container lower than it. Gravity feed went out with the Model A Ford.

[woodscavenger]

Mine runs great from a gas can on the floor.

[central52]

Thanks guys for all the suggestions. Will try them all. One more question. The glass bowl in the fuel pump is empty as well as the glass bowl in the inline fuel filter near the carburetor. I had them rebuilt. Is it necessary to fill them, or will the natural pumping of the fuel pump fill them up? Ed P.

[Plymouthy Adams]

they should fill by the operation of the pump...

[Don Coatney]

If you listen closley you can hear my engine running in this picture.

[55 Fargo]

I hate to admit this, but I still do not have a gas tank on my 47 Chrysler, I have been using a 2 gallon plastic jerry can, plumbed with gas line, its mounted in front of the rad, in the compartment just behind the grille. I have driven up to 25 miles like this, I know it's not wise, but it does not leak, it's mounted and is stable.I plan on getting a gas tank this winter.The fuel pump will suctiongas at a lower level, as the pump will pull it..........Fred

[central52]

Thanks again, guys for the info. Ed P.

[Captain Neon]

It isn't necessary to have the tank higher than the fuel pump, but it does work better. I've also noticed and others have confirmed through their own anecdotal evidence that our old cars with mechanical pumps run better on a full tank of gas than with less gas in the tank. That whole gravity and pressure issue. More gas above produces greater fuel pressure and less work for the pump. However, the fuel pump will pump gasoline into the carburetor from a jug on the floor. I've seen some guys rig up a gravity feed with a coffee can directly into the carburetor.