I am about to replace the fuel pump on my 79 RS2000. The pump on the car has a Bakelite spacer about 4-5mm thick. I can’t see this spacer in any of the workshop manuals I have and the new fuel pump was not supplied with one. Obviously if I leave the spacer out the pump will extend further into the block. Does the spacer belong there or should I leave it out ?

Hey Paul,
I partially rebuilt my Pinto last year, it has the spacer and I refitted it back.
Sorry no exact pics showing it, but it def had one.

You do need one even if you're blanking off for an electric pump the little piston will clash with the new cover.
I did use a new one when I built my car, it may have come in a Dura pro gasket kit. Can't be sure though it was a while back. Wouldn't be hard to make one out of Ali plate if you get really stuck, I can get a measurement if you need to get the right size plate.

Thanks for the replies guys, much appreciated. Would it be OK to use the old spacer and if so does it have a gasket each side? Also is it good to use a sealer on the face of the gaskets ?

Just use a good sealer(Blue RTV etc) each side. Unless a gasket is handy. ..I've never used gaskets there and no problems.

I put a gasket each side. You can make them easily enough too, as the shape isn't complex.

Thanks again guys, I did order two gaskets with the new fuel pump, I just wasn’t sure about the spacer as I couldn’t see it in any of the manuals I have.