Thread: Deadhead fuel pressure regulator

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Originally Posted by K20-Bowtie

I need some guidance. I have a 72 K-20 with a 350 small block, 1406 Edelbrock carburetor and the stock mechanical fuel pump. The engine is running a little rough at idle and the exhaust smells rich. I tested the fuel pressure and it bounces from 8-9 psi (seems high for a mechanical fuel pump).

First, I’m proud of you for testing fuel pressure! I have seen numerous mechanical pumps put out too high pressure. Edelbrock carbs do not like high pressure, while they say 6psi, I never run more than 5psi.

Originally Posted by K20-Bowtie

I searched around for guidance on a deadhead fuel pressure regulator and there seems to be conflicting information. Some say a deadhead pressure regulator will damage the mechanical fuel pump.

I have run deadhead regulators with mechanical pumps, currently I run an electric pump with a deadhead regulator set 4.5psi.

Originally Posted by K20-Bowtie

What’s the best option for a regulator or should I go in a different direction?

Deadhead regulators work well, used by thousands. If you’re have fuel percolation problems that a heat spacer won’t fix, sometimes a bypass regulator helps.

But, remember, no carbureted motor is going to hot start as easy as fuel injection…