Gotta agree with WWW (as usual!) about shutting the pump off when safety and flight conditions dictate. To add emphasis, here's a quote from Textron Lycoming's operating tips:
''An effective continuous fuel supply is provided by use of the fuel boost pump. As a general recommendation, the fuel boost pump should be used with Lycoming engines in all conditions where there is any possibility of excessive vapor formation, or when a temporary cessation of fuel flow would introduce undesirable hazards.
''The conditions under which Textron Lycoming recommends operation of the fuel boost pump are as follows:
1. Every takeoff.
2. Climb after takeoff unless Pilot’s Operating Handbook says it is not necessary.
3. When switching fuel selectors from one separate fuel tank to another, the fuel boost pump should be "On" in the new tank until the operator is assured there will be no interruption of the fuel flow.
4. Every landing approach.
5. Any time the fuel pressure is fluctuating and the engine is affected by the fluctuation.
6. Hot weather, hot engine ground operation where fuel vapor problems cause erratic engine operation
7. Some General Aviation aircraft require the use of the fuel boost pump during high-altitude flight. This will be spelled out in the Pilot’s Operating Handbook.
8. If the engine mounted fuel pump fails.
''If the fuel boost pump is used during ground operation, don’t fail to check the condition of the engine mounted fuel pump before takeoff by turning the boost pump off briefly, and then back "on" for takeoff. If the engine mounted pump has failed, it would be safer to know that on the ground rather than in the air when the fuel boost pump is turned "off."
When in doubt, do the safest thing and use the fuel boost pump with Lycoming engines. Don’t be "stingy" with the boost pump. In most cases they last the overhaul life of the engine, and are then exchanged or overhauled themselves. AS A REMINDER, the airframe Pilot’s Operating Handbook is the authority if boost pump information is spelled out in it."
Each pilot, and certainly each flight instructor should be well versed in the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. That means not only the airframe manufacturer, but the powerplant manufacturer as well.
...and above all,
FLY SAFE!
WileyP