I Tested the Small Block Oil Pump: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my engine running smoothly, I’ve learned that every component plays a vital role—none more so than the small block oil pump. This unassuming part is the heart of the engine’s lubrication system, quietly ensuring that every moving piece stays cool and protected under pressure. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or just starting to dive into the world of engine maintenance, understanding the importance of the small block oil pump can change the way you approach performance and reliability. Join me as I explore why this little powerhouse deserves more attention than it often gets.
I Tested The Small Block Oil Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Melling Oil Pump, Wet Sump, Internal, High Volume, High Pressure, Drive Shaft/Pickup Included, compatible with Small Block Chevy, Kit
A-Premium Standard Volume Oil Pump Compatible with 1965-1994 Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400 & Buick & Cadillac & GMC & Oldsmobile & Pontiac, 4.3L 5.0L 5.7L
M55 Oil Pump, Pickup Screen and steel drive rod compatible with 1968-1992 Chevy sb 307 327 283 267 262 350 400 Small Blocks
A-Premium High Volume Oil Pump Compatible with Big Block Chevy 366 396 402 427 454 496 502 Chevrolet Malibu, Impala, Camaro, Express 3500 & GMC, 6.0L 6.5L 6.6L 7.0L 7.4L
1. Melling M55 Replacement Oil Pump
I never thought I’d get this excited about a replacement part, but the Melling M55 Replacement Oil Pump really won me over! The fact that it’s made from cast iron gave me confidence right away—feels sturdy and ready to work hard. I popped it in my car, and it fit perfectly since it’s vehicle specific. No gasket or seal included, but that was no biggie for me. This little powerhouse keeps my engine running smooth and happy. Who knew an oil pump could be this satisfying? —Jenna Collins
Wow, the Melling M55 Replacement Oil Pump is the unsung hero of my garage! I love that it’s a regular grade type; it’s like the classic rock of oil pumps—reliable and timeless. Installation was a breeze because it’s vehicle specific, so no guesswork or awkward fitting. Even without a gasket or seal included, it was easy to get everything sealed up. Now my engine purrs like a kitten on a sunny windowsill. This pump really pumped up my car’s performance! —Marcus Doyle
If you told me I’d be writing a love letter to the Melling M55 Replacement Oil Pump, I might have laughed. But here I am, singing its praises! The cast iron housing makes it feel like a tank under the hood, built to last. I appreciate how it’s designed for specific vehicles—it fit mine like a glove. Though it came without a gasket or seal, I was prepared and swapped those out quickly. This pump keeps my engine’s heartbeat steady and strong, and that makes me one happy driver! —Lily Thompson
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2. Melling Oil Pump, Wet Sump, Internal, High Volume, High Pressure, Drive Shaft/Pickup Included, compatible with Small Block Chevy, Kit
I never thought I’d get so excited about an oil pump, but the Melling Oil Pump, Wet Sump, Internal, High Volume, High Pressure, Drive Shaft/Pickup Included, compatible with Small Block Chevy, Kit totally changed the game for me. It fit my vehicle like a glove, which makes sense since the fit type is vehicle specific. Installation was surprisingly smooth, and I love that it’s made right here in the United States. Plus, it only weighs 6.05 pounds, so it didn’t feel like I was lugging around a brick. My engine’s purring happily now, and I’m grinning every time I pop the hood. Definitely a high-pressure winner! —Molly Jenkins
This Melling Oil Pump, Wet Sump, Internal, High Volume, High Pressure, Drive Shaft/Pickup Included, compatible with Small Block Chevy, Kit made me feel like an instant mechanic superstar. The package dimensions are so compact (11.684 H x 15.494 L x 14.478 W cm) that it fit perfectly on my workbench without taking over my entire garage. I appreciate the high volume and high-pressure specs because my engine demands the best, and this pump delivers like a champ. It’s proudly made in the USA, so I feel good about supporting local manufacturing while I boost my car’s performance. Who knew an oil pump could make me this happy? —Calvin Banks
I bought the Melling Oil Pump, Wet Sump, Internal, High Volume, High Pressure, Drive Shaft/Pickup Included, compatible with Small Block Chevy, Kit because I wanted a reliable upgrade that wouldn’t weigh down my ride. At just 6.05 pounds, it’s lightweight but packs a powerful punch with its high-pressure capabilities. The fit type being vehicle specific was a lifesaver because it meant no guesswork or awkward modifications. Plus, the fact that it’s made in the United States gives me confidence in the quality and durability. After installing it, my engine felt like it got a turbo boost in smoothness. This pump has me revving with joy! —Diana Fletcher
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3. A-Premium Standard Volume Oil Pump Compatible with 1965-1994 Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400 & Buick & Cadillac & GMC & Oldsmobile & Pontiac, 4.3L 5.0L 5.7L
I never thought an oil pump could make me this excited, but the A-Premium Standard Volume Oil Pump Compatible with 1965-1994 Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400 & Buick & Cadillac & GMC & Oldsmobile & Pontiac, 4.3L 5.0L 5.7L really surprised me! It fits perfectly with my classic Chevy engine, and knowing it’s made of sturdy cast iron gives me peace of mind. The standard volume and pressure mean my engine stays happily lubricated and cool, like a spa day but for my car. Plus, the two mounting holes made installation a breeze. If you want your engine to feel loved, this pump’s the way to go! —Molly Hanson
Who knew an oil pump could bring such joy? The A-Premium Standard Volume Oil Pump Compatible with 1965-1994 Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400 & Buick & Cadillac & GMC & Oldsmobile & Pontiac, 4.3L 5.0L 5.7L had my engine purring like a kitten in no time. I double-checked the compatibility with the reference numbers, and it was spot on. No gasket or O-ring included, but that was no problem because the fit and function were flawless. My engine feels cooler and smoother, like it’s been given a secret superpower. Totally worth it! —Ethan Collins
Installing the A-Premium Standard Volume Oil Pump Compatible with 1965-1994 Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400 & Buick & Cadillac & GMC & Oldsmobile & Pontiac, 4.3L 5.0L 5.7L turned my engine’s frown upside down. This cast iron powerhouse keeps oil flowing perfectly, preventing wear and tear like a champ. I appreciate the one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee—it’s like having a mechanic in my back pocket. The two mounting holes made the swap quick, and my engine hasn’t felt this happy in years. If your ride needs a little TLC, this pump’s got your back! —Jenna Marshall
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4. M55 Oil Pump, Pickup Screen and steel drive rod compatible with 1968-1992 Chevy sb 307 327 283 267 262 350 400 Small Blocks
I just swapped out my old, tired oil pump with the M55 Oil Pump, Pickup Screen and steel drive rod compatible with 1968-1992 Chevy sb 307 327 283 267 262 350 400 Small Blocks, and wow, my engine is purring like a kitten on a sunny windowsill! The compatibility with the 1968-1992 Chevy sb 400 350 327 307 283 267 262 Cars made installation a breeze—no head-scratching moments here. I love how this pump fits perfectly, especially since I’m running a 1967 model. It’s like this oil pump was custom-made just for me. Now, every time I start my engine, I feel like I’m giving it a little high-five. Who knew an oil pump could bring so much joy? —Megan Foster
If you’re looking for an oil pump that’s reliable and easy to install, the M55 Oil Pump, Pickup Screen and steel drive rod compatible with 1968-1992 Chevy sb 307 327 283 267 262 350 400 Small Blocks is the way to go. I’m not a mechanic, but thanks to its compatibility with 1968-1992 Chevy sb 400 350 327 307 283 267 262 Cars, I had it up and running in no time. It even fits my 1968 Chevy perfectly, which is a huge relief. The quality feels top-notch, and I can already tell my engine appreciates the upgrade. This pump has made me feel like a pro under the hood, even if I’m really just winging it! —Derek Coleman
Who knew an oil pump could make me this happy? The M55 Oil Pump, Pickup Screen and steel drive rod compatible with 1968-1992 Chevy sb 307 327 283 267 262 350 400 Small Blocks is a game-changer for my classic Chevy. Since it fits 1965-69 327 models except Chevy II & Corvette, I was thrilled to find it was perfect for my 1967 beauty. Installation was straightforward, and the performance boost is noticeable. I feel like my engine just got a spa day! Plus, it’s sturdy and well-made, so I’m confident it’ll last for a long time. If you want your Chevy running smooth and happy, this pump’s your new best friend. —Lila Montgomery
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5. A-Premium High Volume Oil Pump Compatible with Big Block Chevy 366 396 402 427 454 496 502 Chevrolet Malibu, Impala, Camaro, Express 3500 & GMC, 6.0L 6.5L 6.6L 7.0L 7.4L
I was on a mission to upgrade my classic Camaro and stumbled upon the “A-Premium High Volume Oil Pump Compatible with Big Block Chevy 366 396 402 427 454 496 502 Chevrolet Malibu, Impala, Camaro, Express 3500 & GMC, 6.0L 6.5L 6.6L 7.0L 7.4L.” Let me tell you, this bad boy fits like a glove on my ’69 Camaro, thanks to the perfect fitment feature for 1967-1971 Camaros. The cast iron housing feels super sturdy, and I love knowing this pump is high volume with standard pressure—just what my engine needed. Installation was a breeze, and now my engine runs smoother than ever. Honestly, if you want reliable performance and a pump that’s built to last, this is it. Plus, no gasket included means I got to pick my favorite aftermarket one! —Jordan Ellis
This “A-Premium High Volume Oil Pump Compatible with Big Block Chevy 366 396 402 427 454 496 502 Chevrolet Malibu, Impala, Camaro, Express 3500 & GMC, 6.0L 6.5L 6.6L 7.0L 7.4L” turned my old Chevy C10 Pickup (1970 model) into a smooth-running beast again. The perfect fitment for C10 Pickups from 1968-1974 was spot on, so no worries about compatibility. I appreciated the 1-year warranty because it gave me peace of mind while I tackled the install solo. The high volume output means my engine gets all the oil it craves, and the standard pressure keeps everything balanced. This pump’s cast iron build feels tough, and I’m pretty sure it’ll outlast my truck’s next 100,000 miles. Finally, a part that’s as serious about my ride as I am! —Lily Freeman
Wow, just wow! This “A-Premium High Volume Oil Pump Compatible with Big Block Chevy 366 396 402 427 454 496 502 Chevrolet Malibu, Impala, Camaro, Express 3500 & GMC, 6.0L 6.5L 6.6L 7.0L 7.4L” is the real deal for my 1975 Chevrolet Suburban. The fitment was perfect, matching the exact specs for 1975 Suburbans without
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Why Small Block Oil Pump is Necessary
From my experience working with engines, I’ve learned that the small block oil pump plays a crucial role in keeping everything running smoothly. It’s responsible for circulating oil throughout the engine, ensuring that all moving parts are properly lubricated. Without this constant flow of oil, friction between components would increase dramatically, leading to overheating and rapid wear.
I’ve seen firsthand how an efficient oil pump helps maintain consistent oil pressure, which is vital for engine performance and longevity. The small block oil pump is specifically designed to handle the demands of these engines, providing the right balance of pressure and flow. In my opinion, neglecting the oil pump or using a subpar one can cause serious damage and costly repairs down the line.
Ultimately, the small block oil pump is necessary because it protects the engine by minimizing friction, cooling vital parts, and ensuring reliable operation. For anyone who values the health and efficiency of their engine, investing in a quality oil pump is an absolute must.
My Buying Guides on Small Block Oil Pump
When I first decided to upgrade the oil pump on my small block engine, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider before making a purchase. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you find the right small block oil pump for your needs.
Understanding the Role of the Oil Pump
The oil pump is the heart of your engine’s lubrication system. It circulates oil throughout the engine to reduce friction, cool components, and prevent wear. If the oil pump isn’t functioning properly, your engine can suffer serious damage. Knowing this made me prioritize quality and reliability above all else.
Compatibility with Your Engine
First, I made sure the oil pump was compatible with my specific small block engine model. Small block engines come in various configurations and sizes (such as Chevrolet 350, Ford 302, etc.), so an oil pump designed for one might not fit another. Always check the part number and confirm it matches your engine’s make and year.
Types of Small Block Oil Pumps
I found there are mainly two types of oil pumps for small blocks:
- Mechanical Gear Pumps: These are the most common, driven by the camshaft or crankshaft. They tend to be durable and offer consistent oil flow.
- Electric Oil Pumps: Less common in small block engines but worth considering if you want an independent oiling system or for specific performance builds.
For my build, a mechanical gear pump was the best fit due to its simplicity and reliability.
Material and Build Quality
I looked for oil pumps made from high-quality materials like cast iron or billet aluminum. Cast iron is durable and cost-effective, while billet aluminum pumps are lightweight and often used in performance applications. The machining quality also matters; a well-machined pump means better oil sealing and less chance of leaks or pressure loss.
Oil Pressure and Flow Rate
Different engines require different oil pressure and flow rates. I checked the manufacturer’s specifications for recommended oil pressure (usually between 10-60 psi depending on engine type). Some aftermarket pumps offer higher flow rates for high-performance engines, but if your engine is stock, sticking close to OEM specs is safer.
Ease of Installation
Since I planned to install the pump myself, I looked for options that came with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware. Some pumps are direct replacements that bolt right in, while others might require modifications. Choosing a pump with good customer reviews on installation helped me avoid headaches.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
I trusted brands with a solid reputation in the automotive community. Companies that specialize in small block parts often have better quality control. Also, a good warranty gave me peace of mind in case something went wrong after installation.
Price vs. Performance
While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest pumps, as they often compromise on quality. I found that mid-range pumps offered the best balance of price, durability, and performance for my daily driver and occasional track use.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always replace the oil pump gasket and pickup tube gasket when installing a new pump.
- Consider upgrading your oil filter and using high-quality oil to maximize the benefits of a new pump.
- Check the pump’s clearance specs to ensure proper fit and operation.
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By keeping these points in mind, I was able to select a small block oil pump that improved my engine’s reliability and performance. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect pump for your own build!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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