Unfortunately, I know of no source for the fuel pump strainer. Nissan doesn't show a seperate part number so I assume that they only sell it with the pump. When I needed one I just went to the junkyard and got the best one I could find and cleaned it up. I'm not familiar with Napa's pump and it may have a check valve but you could temporarily use that glass filter just to see what comes out of the tank. The 'running vs pumping' you speak of sounds like the pump attemting to prime itself.

I like this one:

http://www.atlanticz.ca/zclub/techtips/fuel/g3filter/index.htm

You could put this before or after the pump, I suppose.

It really does sound to me as if your pump isn't getting enough juice at times, especially considering the hot fusible link you mentioned. I would really check those wires because you'll probably have to eventually anyway. Just my 2c.

Bob...that is awesome..and is as it will be. You share some great pictures..which for a guy who has spent way too much time breathing exhaust fumes is a good thing. Today was turd for me, and you and Stephen have kept my hope alive, . The fusible link turned out to be something else...that was stupid. There is a short in the Parking Brake switch wiring. I had hooked it up over the weekend, not realizing that the PO had a good reason for unplugging it.

Can anyone describe the way the pick up "pipe" lookes inside the tank? Or better yet, anyone got any pictures? Is it just a tube, that allows fuel in the end? Is it a tube with slots cut in it? Does it have a "sock" on it?..I picture it as a pipe with slots..but I don't know why, maybe that just seems easier to clog to me..

http://www.atlanticz.ca/zclub/techtips/fuel/gastank/index.htm

And the whole list of 'em is here:

http://www.atlanticz.ca/zclub/techtips/

This is without a doubt the most picture oriented reference to the Z I've ever found.

Oddly enough, the fuel level indicator opening looks roughly the same size and has the same type of locking mechanism (interlocking rings) as the one in my Olds '88. In-tank high flowing pump, anyone? Maybe I'll have a chance to compare them side by side one day, but I hope not.

I just don't know if I'd use a fuel filter that wasn't designed for fuel injection. Remember, they're talking about putting that Fram filter on a carbureated car. I once thought about mounting a standard EFI filter back there (the same one that's under the hood) but after I changed the tank there really wasn't a need.

That G3 was actually (and is still) used on an EFI 280z.

That G3 was actually (and is still) used on an EFI 280z.

My bad, I didn't notice that the car in the article is a 77.

you guys are awesome! I take it the tube with the trumpet looking part is when the fuel leaves the tank.....that kinda looks like a great place to clog.

um opps I read more..it's not that one..

If you're really worried about the tank clogginf, drain the gas from the plug and see what plops out, it can't hurt (besides the waste of a few gallons at today's prices) and will give you a clear idea of what's in that sucker. If you decide it's worth it, you can have a radiator shop boil it out (before you drop the tank: call first!!).

Right now: You seem to have run the engine a bit so.... take out the fuel filter and tap the inlet (from tank side) over a sheet of white paper. See what falls out.

The fuel pump not kicking in may also be the contacts in the AFM not touching during turn over. This can be because they're old and worn out (check out the AFM page) or because your motor's not sucking enough vacuum to trigger them (they are triggered by the AFM flap opening, as you've no doubt noticed). Could also be the EFI relay, this can be tested at you local autozone, free (mine is wire to always kick in with the key in the 'on' position, bypassing all safety from the AFM and the relay and no, I didn't do it).

You'll need to get a copy of the Z EFI Bible and run through the tests one by one to really know what you're up against. (Available at the above site, under EFI)

Pardon if I've recovered anything, I forget. Those gas fumes are a killer.......

I really think that the AFM contacts are the key. We kind of passed by that but I think it deserves further attention. If the EFI relay was bad it shouldn't run. Do you mean one of the fuel pump relays?