Originally Posted by Diesel911

Except for fast priming I do not see the allure of having an Electric Fuel Pump (especially with the stock Alternator) on a 617.
Rebuilding the Fuel Supply/Lift Pump is cheap and easy and you know that the Pump is going to be adequate and reliable for the Job. And, your Lift Pump is most likely fixed for another 20 years.

On the newer Models the rebuilding the Lift Pump is slightly more complicated due to the Outlet Valve crimped in a fitting and the Kit cost more but it is still a reliable fix. But, the newer model Lift Pumps do not seem to have the longevity of the 617 types.

However, the Newer models have higher amp Alternators and there is no facility for priming the Fuel System. So on them an Electric Fuel Pump seems more useful and feasible.

I am still most interested in hearing from the Original Poster!