Alternator upgrade on '73 Z

[dcoop46]

I was going to do the alternator upgrade with the Motorsport alternator upgrade plug but they said won't work on '73 becaused of electic fuel pump.  I know some disconnect the electric pump but is there a way to still use it & upgrade.  Does it require rewire of fuel pump?  Any alternatives?  Need to do this upgrade to proceed with the other standard upgrades such as radiator w/fans, updated lighting, & etc.  Help deeply appreciated.

[SteveJ]

Yes, it requires re-wiring. Power the fuel pump off of the ignition circuit and have an inertia switch in that circuit to act as a cut-off in case of an accident.

[dcoop46]

Thanks.

[dcoop46]

Do you just unplug the electric pump/seal the disconnected ends & rewire?  Do you install a fuse/circuit breaker in line with inertia switch from ingnition to pump?  What is the type/best inertia switch to use.  Thanks for the help.

[SteveJ]

Yes, you should fuse it. That way if you have a short circuit, you take out the fuse and fuel pump but not the ignition. The 73 will still run without the electric fuel pump, but it will be more vulnerable to vapor lock if you still have the flat top carburetors.

 

As for the inertia switch, you can find them on Amazon, eBay or Rockauto. You could also go to a junkyard and source one.

[dcoop46]

Appreciate your help.