BBC water pump - Brand recommendations?

[Greg72]

OK,

I think I've reached a point where I need to simply start adding the accessories to the front of my 502 so that I can figure out clearances for the front engine cage, radiator, electric fans etc.

Many of you remember all the troubles I had during my cross-country journey in the Suburban (Trogdor!) and the fact that I went through 3 water pumps over the course of 6 days of travel.... remanufactured water pumps are the worst!

My suspicion is that even "new" waterpumps from many manufacturers aren't all that good either.... crappy castings, low-quality impellers and seals, etc.

What I'd like to do is buy a QUALITY water pump, install it......and just have it work and last a long time. That's not too much to ask, is it?


I see that companies like Milodon make water pumps, and they do cost quite a bit more than a "regular" one.... are they made with better and more precise parts?

Looking for recommendations. I'm not expecting to get the cheapest price, but I do want to get what I pay for.

 

[4X4HIGH]

Airtex makes a good factory replacement pump. DO NOT buy a rebuilt pump.

 

[dyeager535]

I haven't looked at their prices, nor have I heard reviews, but stewart components sure talks up theirs.

http://www.stewartcomponents.net/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=ChevyHiFlWP

 

[4X4HIGH]

Carter is also another good brand of factory replacement pumps.

 

[toomany]

I use a Stewart pump on my 454 drag car. Have a Milidon on my 83, had an Edelbrock on my 88. I think as long as you stick to a name brand, you should be fine. Even though an expensive pump doesn't mean it won't fail, it just means the quallity should be better. Generaly the better ones will pump the water to both sides of the motor evenly too.

 

[miniwally]

I am running a Weiand? Team G water pump on my buggy. I can't remember exactly who made it but it is part of the Holley companies.

The only failure I have seen is the gasket on the back of the pump giving out at KOH. After replacing the gasket I saw where it was never installed correctly from day one and was destined to fail at some point.

Lesson learned is that I will never install a water pump with out removing the back cover and resealing the cover myself.

I would look at the Stage 2-3 Stewart AL water pumps. They are good stuff from what I hear.

 

[73k5blazer]

You could get a GM Performance Parts pump, direct from the General. Brand new castings and parts.
http://www.gmperformanceparts.com/Parts/catalog.jsp