I am installing a Wix 33041 3 line fuel filter to overcome a vapor lock problem. The car is a '57 T-Bird with a Ford 460, lots of heat under the hood. Where is the best location for this filter, before the fuel pump, or at the carburetor? Thanks
Thanks, Squirrel. I read an old thread that stated vapor lock was in the fuel line between the tank and fuel pump. I was of the opinion the filter should be close to the carb. Back in the '50's wooden clothes pins were always next to the carb.
The filter won't work before the pump , it'll suck 2 lines. Sent from my LG-TP450 using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
Yes, put it between the mechanical fuel pump and the carb. And you are running the return line from the filter back to the tank, right?
Do you have room for an insulator under the carb? I do not know on a 460 but other Ford engines restrict the exhaust going thru the intake under the carb. Today's fuel may also cause part of these problems; do you use an additive?
And as I mentioned in another thread ,I had a vapor lock issue with a 1977 400 small block recently. This truck already had a return line from the factory. While studying the probable causes of vapor lock, one thing kept coming up. The condition of the fuel pump. While it seemed that the truck was running fine otherwise, apparently the fuel pump was weak. I changed it out with a new one and HOLY CRAP what a difference. Truck runs great and no vapor lock issues since.
Vapor lock is caused by heat soak so an insulator under the carb and blocking the heat crossover are both good recommendations. I would add that careful fuel line routing is also important. I had vapor lock issues on my '58 when for appearance sake, I ran the hard line from the pump to the carb too close to the motor. Rerouting the line with about an inch more air gap permanently solved the problem. Also be aware that modern fuels containing ethanol will boil at normal engine operating temperature. I believe non-oxy fuel is better for a carbureted engine, if you can find it.
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