Where Is the Fuel Pump on a 1963 Thunderbird?

The 1963 Ford Thunderbird was equipped with the 390 cubic-inch V-8 FE-series engine. It was the last of the third generation of Thunderbirds, nicknamed Bullet Birds because of the smooth sides and pointed nose and made from 1961-63. The 390 engine was personalized for the Thunderbird with the addition of chrome valve covers with Thunderbird stamped in them. The 390 engine uses a mechanical fuel pump that is driven by a cam attached to the camshaft timing gear.

Instructions

Location

1

Park the Thunderbird on a level, paved surface and set the parking brake.

2

Move to the engine compartment. Remove the air cleaner.

3

Follow the fuel line from the carburetor. It will lead you to the fuel pump, which is attached to the timing cover on the drivers side of the engine. It has another fuel line that runs to the gas tank that is held on with two bolts.

Removal and Replacement

4

Use a line wrench to remove the two fuel lines from the pump.

5

Use a ratchet and socket to remove the two bolts that hold the pump onto the timing cover. Remove the pump.

6

Use a putty knife to remove any gasket material from the timing cover. Clean the gasket mating surface with a shop rag wetted with lacquer thinner.

7

Apply a thin coat of non-hardening gasket sealer to the gasket mating surfaces on the timing cover and new pump. Coat both sides of the fuel pump gasket with sealer. Mount the gasket on the fuel pump. Mount the pump on the timing cover and install and tighten the bolts.

8

Install and tighten the fuel lines.