---
title: Why Does My Engine Have A Mechanical Fuel Pump Block-Off Plate?
description: Learn why your BluePrint Engine may have a mechanical fuel pump block-off plate installed and whether your engine can use a mechanical fuel pump.
---

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# Why Does My Engine Have A Mechanical Fuel Pump Block-Off Plate?

## Many customers notice a block-off plate on the timing cover area of their BluePrint Engine and wonder if something is missing. In most cases, this is completely normal.

### ***What Is A Fuel Pump Block-Off Plate?***

A fuel pump block-off plate covers the mechanical fuel pump mounting location on the engine block when a mechanical fuel pump is not being used.

This is common on:

- EFI applications
- Electric fuel pump applications
- Many LS-style conversions
- Custom fuel system installations

 Does My Engine Need A Mechanical Fuel Pump?

Not necessarily.

Many BluePrint Engines are configured to run:

- Electric fuel pumps
- EFI fuel systems
- Return-style fuel systems

When a mechanical fuel pump is not required, the mounting location is covered with a block-off plate.

---

Is Something Missing?

No.

If your engine was shipped with a fuel pump block-off plate installed, this does not mean a part was omitted.

The engine was assembled for the fuel system configuration specified for that engine package.

 Can I Remove The Block-Off Plate And Install A Mechanical Fuel Pump?

Maybe.

This depends on the engine family and camshaft configuration.

Some BluePrint engines are capable of accepting a mechanical fuel pump, while others are not.

Before installing a mechanical fuel pump, verify:

- Mechanical fuel pump compatibility
- Fuel pump pushrod requirements
- Camshaft fuel pump eccentric requirements

 Do LS Engines Use Mechanical Fuel Pumps?

No.

BluePrint LS engines require an electric fuel pump system and do not utilize a mechanical fuel pump.

 Why Does My Engine Have A Fuel Pump Pushrod Hole But No Pump?

Many SBC and BBC engine blocks retain the original mechanical fuel pump provisions even when equipped for electric fuel pump operation.

This is normal and does not indicate a missing component.

 

---

Frequently Asked Questions

### My engine came with a block-off plate. Does it need a fuel pump?

No. Many BluePrint engines are designed to operate with an electric fuel pump system.

### Can I use a mechanical fuel pump instead?

Depending on the engine family and configuration, possibly. Verify compatibility before installation.

### Is the block-off plate supposed to leak oil?

No. If oil is present around the block-off plate, inspect the gasket and mounting bolts.

### Why is there a block-off plate on my SBC or BBC?

The engine may have been built for an electric fuel pump application.

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