external fuel pump for tbi injection?

I was wondering if anyone has tried installing an inline electric fuel pump on the frame rail instead of pulling the gas tank to fix a bad stock pump. The problem I need identified is if someone knows for sure if gas can be pulled through the stock in tank pump or not. Wireing an inline pump with the existing power lead and still having the fuel gauge working would be a snap if an external pump would work.

Most times, the stock pump will allow fuel to be drawn through. There may be some restriction, but it has been done. Most external pumps are not designed for a lot of lift (suction) and restriction can be a problem. It's really a crap-shoot. The most appropriate method is to remove the in-tank pump and either replace it with a straight pickup and filter sock, or a new stock pump, or sump the tank to allow the external pump to be gravity fed with fuel. Tank removal on an Astro is not all that difficult.

If the in-tank pump has failed electrically, it may work. If it has failed mechanically, it may not work. Is your's getting power an not running, or is it running and not producing pressure? It may make a big difference in whether an external will work. If it is running but not making pressure, the pulsation damper may be split, and no pump will be able to draw vapor from the tank and deliver liquid gasoline to the injectors.

Thanks Bowtie. I opted to replace the stock pump after all. As you said, it is not difficult to pull the tank. I guess I was just having a lazy moment when I posted for information. It is back in working order again. I paid 500 bucks for the van and have been getting good service for 2 years. Astros are all but bulletproof it seems. Thanks for the information though. You never know, I might get that lazy bug again in the future if it goes out again.