tempest411

Hello,

I have an '86 block that I want to build for an early model car with manual tensioners. I need to figure out which oil pump to use. I've read allusions to the specs changing based on the manual/automatic tensioner variable, differences in the seals and drive gears they use (the one that goes over the crank), and also that the later models had higher flow or pressure. I've searched and not found anything that specifically covers this...it seems like most people just use what ever they have on hand.

Any advice is much appreciated.

Thank you,

Rick

txhokie4life

Good question
Be sure to use a pump from the same or similar model years. The channels are cut differently between certain years. You need to make sure it mates up with your block properly.

We lost a race weekend thinking the pumps were the same. They looked the same but ended up having some subtle differences that were crucial.

Mike

tempest411

It sounds like I should just use a water pump of the same vintage of the block, though it would be a shame to not be able to take advantage of a later design if there is any advantage to it. I've read they improved the volume in the later design, but if my 1985 block will not accept it then it would be a non-starter.

kevin12973

Water pump ?????

tempest411

Oops, no that was oil pump! I also noticed I stated incorrectly in the first post I had an '86 block when after double checking the numbers on the block I do in fact have an '85. Between Christmas and too many projects I'm a bit scrambled..