How do I replace the fuel pump on my Studebaker Lark?

Short answer: The Lark uses a mechanical fuel pump bolted to the engine, so it's a basic swap once you know whether you have the six or the 259/289 V8. If it still runs rough after, check vacuum lines. One owner's problem was a loose vacuum line. For parts and advice, owners point to the Studebaker Drivers Club.

Symptom: The engine is starving for fuel or runs rough, or you're thinking about buying a Lark.

What to check first

1. Identify the engine (six or V8) before ordering a pump.
2. Look for fuel leaks at the pump.
3. Check all vacuum lines for being loose or cracked.
4. If buying, check for rust and parts availability through the club.

Likely causes

1. Worn mechanical fuel pump. The pump is bolted to the engine and runs off the camshaft. Its rubber diaphragm wears out.
2. Loose or cracked vacuum line. A vacuum line that's off or cracked lets extra air in and makes the engine run rough.

What it usually costs

Owners in these threads didn't post repair prices. In 2010, members put purchase prices for a Lark at about $2,000-$5,000.

Is it safe to keep driving?

A leaking fuel pump is a fire risk. Don't drive until it's fixed.

DIY or shop?

The fuel pump and vacuum lines are DIY.

Recalls, bulletins and complaints in plain words

• Recalls: NHTSA's recall lookup returned no data for the Studebaker Lark for 16 model-year queries on 2026-10-29, so we couldn't confirm recalls here. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. If your car is part of a recall, the dealer fixes it for free.
• Plain words: The complaint count below shows how often owners reported problems that mention these words to NHTSA. A count is not proof of a defect.
• NHTSA complaints: 0 keyword-matched complaints for Studebaker Lark 1959–1966 (of 0 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-29; keywords: fuel, pump, start, stall) (NHTSA returned no data for 16 model-year queries). This counts complaints that mention these words. It is not a defect finding.

What owners report

• In 1962 Studebaker Lark on Car Talk, a 1962 Lark owner swapped the mechanical fuel pump. Members discussed the differences between the six and the 259/289 V8 pumps, and a loose vacuum line was found to be causing the rough running.
• In 1961 Studebaker Lark coupe on Car Talk, a buyer looking at a 1961 Lark coupe was pointed to the Studebaker Drivers Club for parts and help, and members discussed prices of roughly $2,000-$5,000 for these cars at the time.

Quick tip

Join the club before you buy. They know which parts are hard to find.

Vehicle focus: Studebaker Lark, 1959-1966.

Safety / mechanic note

Fuel leaks are a fire risk. Verify with a mechanic.