how to test a fuel pump

[flatlander]

Have not started it for a couple of months. Reattached the battery cable and cranked it over. No start so I gave it a shot of starting fluid and it fired up instantly and then died. Repeated this process numerous times to the same result. Primed the carb and that kept the car running for 15-20 seconds. Checked the inline filter but it is not obstructed - as expected because I replaced it this past summer. Pulled the line out from the pump and got just a dribble of fuel when I cranked it again with a shot of staring fluid. Pulled the pump and manually depressed the pump actuator and got a pretty good spray of gas so I know the diaphragm is not gone completely but I have not disassembled the pump. Anybody got any suggestions? Can anyone tell me how to test the pump itself?

[azruss]

I assume you have an early model manual fuel pump that bolts into the sideof the block. If you pushed the lever arm and you got a good pulse of fuel, then your pump is ok. Either your pump cam lobe is worn (not likely if it has been working) or you have an airleak in your system and you are losing prime. check hoses and fittings upstream from the pump.

[flatlander]

Thanks for the advice, I will check it out next weekend.