The pressure on your fuel system is controlled by the fuel pressure regulator. The pump only supplies the volume required to achieve the correct pressure for the fuel delivery system. The air/fuel ratio can then be properly be controlled by the feed-back from the O2 sensors and the VCM/PCM adjusting the injectors duration. Increasing the volume by installing an aftermarket fuel pump will only cause the fuel pressure regulator to work overtime.
Either pump, aftermarket or OEM like the ACDelco EP381 will not last long if the fuel tank has dust, dirt and other debris in it. You indicated the tank was out while coating the frame. I would suggest following the cleaning procedure that GM placed in service information. Get the hottest water you can pour into the tank, rock and vigorously shake to clean. Dump the remainder of water & fuel if any according to local and state rules, but wipe the tank out and place in a warm area to facilitate evaporation of any tank moisture. Wipe with a clean paper shop towel then install fuel pump / sender assembly. Inspect electrical connectors for dis-coloration, burn't or speed terminals and replace if need. Use new O-ring and use dielectric grease on the connector prior to installation routed away from exhaust components.
Now unless your racing, added over-sized valves, modified camshaft and trying to achieve a 10 second quarter mile, I would not spent the extra money. But use proper cleaning procedures and install a new fuel pressure regulator for proper fuel pressure. It's you money. But why do replacement pumps fail quickly and come with instructions that indicate a clean tank is required to get warrantee.
ASE Master Tech since 1978 / Retired
