If I install an electric fuel pump do I need a return line? Or is that just for fuel injected engines?
Depends on the pump and it's flow rating. I'm running the MrGasket 12S, no return line needed, no regulator needed either. Some pumps will need a regulator as well as a return line. Just remember that to feed a carbed motor, you do not need a pump that has a massive flow rating, little dab'll do you here. The MrGasket is rated at 35 gals/hr.
If I stay with the mechanical, will I need to put hard lines back on it or can I run rubber tubing from the tank up to the pump? My lines are shot.
Zero trouble with it. If you're not going to drive the car frequently, the electric is the way to go, that way all you'll need to do to reprime the carb is turn the switch on to refill the fuel bowl. With a mech pump, you'll have to sit there and crank it till the pump can deliver enough fuel to fill the bowl on the carb. This saves wear and tear on your battery and starting system.
I would run new hard lines regardless. Only use rubber fuel line in short lengths to make a connection. You could run braided stainless but that is expensive.
You can get new pre-bent fuel lines from www.RightStuffDetailing.com If you were closer to me I would give you a set of used ones.
Thanks, I have a 75 parts car. I can see if that line is in better shape. I really didn't want to spend more than I have too on lines.