Oil Pump Choice

[dryheat]

I am presently acquiring various parts for my 383 Polara. This is going to be a bone stock 383 back road/boulevard crusier.

With respect to the oil pump there are 3 to choose from ... standard volume ... high volume ... high pressure. I'm leaning towards the standard volume (of course), however, before I pull the trigger I was hoping to get some opinions/explanations as to whether the high volume or high pressure would provide any added benefits or is it just a waste of money.

Thanks ...

 

[lewtot184]

use standard volume. a high volume is only needed for engines with loose clearances and high oil demand, basically bleeders. a high volume is of no use unless the stock 3/8' pick-up is enlarged to 1/2" and capacity increased. a stock engine will live nicely on a stock pump. pressure can always be varied by changing the relief spring or adding an adjustment to the relief spring cap.

 

[dryheat]

Thanks ... that was exactly what I was hoping to read.

AND it makes a lot of sense too!

Thanks again ...

 

[Meep-Meep]

Lew nailed it. I personally like to err on the high side when it comes to oil pressure. The 70 lb spring as supplied in the Melling HP (std volume) pump is good.