While performing a cam swap for an upcoming magazine article, we decided it would be a good idea to replace our questionable fuel pump. Unfortunately, the local parts store didn't seem to know the difference between a 318 and 383. . .

We're doing a cam, intake, and carb swap on the 383 in our '69 Newport, and decided to replace the mechanical fuel pump while we were at it. Going to the local discount parts store, we answered all of their questions, even the ones that don't have anything to do with the fuel pump like "does it have air-conditioning?".

When it came to engine size, I know I clearly said "383", and the friendly counter person happily hit the keyboard keys to order the pump. Later that day I picked up my part and went to the shop to install it. Note: always look at your part before taking your car apart, I didn't and when I was ready to install my new fuel pump I opened the box to find a pump for a small-block Mopar. Dang. Luckily I have other Mopars so I drove back to the store to return my part and find out what happened.

The counterperson (a different one) politely informed me that I had ordered a pump for a 318 (no I didn't). I didn't even argue, it's not worth it, but this time I watched the computer screen to make sure the proper big-block fuel pump was ordered. It will be here later today and I will definitely be opening the box, this time before I leave the store, to be sure it's correct.

I guess as these cars get older than the person behind the counter we need to double check our orders, and just be happy we can still get the parts we need to keep these classic Mopars on the road.