Fuel pump with carbs, Should it run all the time? Options

[brooks944]

Hi, I have a 1.8 ( now 1911) with 40 Webers and Web cam. It has run rich and my local shop has changed jets and it was running strong. I am now having starting problems and it seems to smell like it’s rich again. Last time I drove it it backfired a couple of times under load and it sounded like the backfire was from the carbs(?). My main question is on the fuel pump, which is a faucet type from the local auto parts store. Should the pump run continuously or shut off when a certain pressure is reached? Mine runs all the time when the key is on. I don’t believe there is a fuel pressure regulator on now.
Thanks for your help on my issues,
Rick

[Jack Standz]

Mixture: An Air Fuel Ratio meter/gauge is a very good tool for getting your mixture right (make sure you have the right: main jets, idle jets, pump jets, venturis, emulsion tubes, etc.).

Ignition timing: A very good tool for getting your ignition timing right is a "dial back" timing light. But, be sure to put a mark on your fan/flywheel at TDC on compression for #1 cylinder. Give the motor what it wants, but a good starting point would be maybe around 8 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC) at idle with maybe 28 to 32 degrees total advance. Again, give your motor what it wants.

Valves: You can use a vacuum gauge for a preliminary check, but use a leak down test.

If this is more than you know how to do at this point, no problem. Find someone that can do these types of test and troubleshooting.