Hello Everyone, I’m shopping around for a high flow water pump. There are so many options like:1. Tuff Stuff Performance Supercool,Water Pumps for 1972-1982 CORVETTE - 1534NC


2. ALUMINUM MECHANICAL WATER, PUMP - POLISHED - TOP STREET PERFORMANCE

What have you found that would be a perfect fit for a 1981 Corvette that will enhance high flow performance? Thank you for responding!

 

Lots of choices. I'm sure most of the high flows you are looking at would work fine. I have always used stock flow, if I wanted more flow I reduced the size of the water pump pulley. That's one option. Make sure your radiator is in good enought shape to handle a larger flow, I have never been impressed with stock radiators. Make sure the pump depth and shaft size is what you want, And rotation.

 

Thank you Thomas. Just looking for Corvette owners who has a C3 and what worked best for them as far as high flow and aluminum vs. metal. Also, what’s the brand name and fits without any hassles. Don’t want to ship items back and fourth or try to get a refund because it’s off somewhere. Am I asking the impossible?

 

I have had 2 C-3s that had SB, but not high volume pumps. So I can't help you there. Nether car had heating problems. The 77 now has a 402 BB with a summit aluminum radiator, stock water pump, no heating problems. You will have to match up pumps to what you need. As far as I know the only difference between steel and aluminum is weight. I see you have a lot of choices. I have read forums where guys were having issues with clearance. Good luck finding the perfect match.

 

So, can I ask the dumb question? Why? These cars are not known for overheating with a small block. I used to build engines for a living, and honestly what is the point of a high flow pump when your thermostat is not going to allow more flow? I think too many times people read articles ( designed as ads) that create solutions looking for problems. The 3rd generation Corvette was designed to be driven at 140 mph, read that again,driven. Not hit. That's nearly redline. Now, the big block will overheat after a relatively short time at that speed because it can't get enough air. The small block will not.

 

I want to let you know that I have 1972-1982 CORVETTE parts available for sales , let me know if you are still interested . you can contact me via my email meehanlynn691@gmail.com