Besides warning ’49 owners whose cars have engine numbers between 85392 and 88800 (the last 5 digits, that is) of possible camshaft problems, the Cadillac Service Bulletin above has several interesting facts:
1. The 4th paragraph explains how to remove the fuel pump and oil filler housing as one assembly, which is an easier way to remove and replace the fuel pump. The reason is that when replacing the fuel pump with the oil filler housing still on the motor, it’s a bit tricky getting the pump bolts started because of the pressure the fuel pump operating rod exerts on the pump actuating lever, even with the rod in its lowest position. To do it the easier way, before installing either on the motor, first bolt the new fuel pump to the oil filler housing, then insert the operating rod in the motor, then bump the starter until the rod is in its lowest position and lower the pump and housing over the rod as one assembly. At this point it’s easy to draw the assembly down over the rod by progressively tightening the 2 bolts holding it to the motor. Don’t forget the gasket that goes under the housing;
2. Also, this way you can inspect the operating rod and replace it if worn, as they can still be bought new. The rod has a top and a bottom with a smaller diameter cast iron insert at the bottom (see diagram in service bulletin), so be sure you insert it with the cast iron insert down;
3. If the last 5 digit’s of your ‘49’s engine number are indeed between 85392 and 88800, then heed the instructions in the next to last and last paragraphs, particularly if you have had camshaft problems.
