Got questions?
We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we’re covering the benefits of high-volume, high-pressure oil pumps.
R.B. • Mannford, OK
Q: I am trying to pick the best oil pump for my street engine. Some say high-volume is the best while others believe high-pressure is the way to go. What is your opinion?
A: Since you’re running a street engine, your best bet is a standard-volume, standard-pressure pump. High-volume pumps are only required to keep oil system accessories like an oil cooler or remote oil filter running effectively. Some engine builders prefer to use high-volume oil pumps on engines with wide bearing clearances and high mileage (rather than rebuild the engine). On the other hand, high-pressure pumps are necessary for circle track and drag racing engines because they provide fast oil circulation to keep up with the higher rpms.
An average daily driver will not benefit from a high-volume or high-pressure pump. However, if you plan on installing an oil system accessory or building a race engine, then you may want to upgrade to a high performance pump.
I use standard volume pump mellings m-55 with a police pressure relief spring.
I sometimes thing the gap between a warmed over 300 horse 100,000 mile engine and a Pro stock engine gets ignored. I have (not my first) a 438 cubic inch small block,heavily ported aluminum heads, 640 lift cam, forged, balanced rotating assembly, and it’s probably never going to see a legal drag race. It has a 5-speed, so auto trans problems aren’t an issue. I have an 8 quart pan, and I am most definitely using a high volume pump. I’m planning for 600+ hp on E-85, and the occasional use of a 150 shot. And yes, I’m using restrictors to keep the oil where it belongs.
The more “ leaks “ you have in an engine pul system the more you need hi volume pump leaks like wide bearing clearances roller lifters with extra oiling edm and or wide lifter bore to lifter clearance
Roller rocker extra oiling
Good oul pan design and not too much oil to create aeration and good drain back holes in heads negate any need for restrictors to top end
You need pul up top to cool the valve sptings in a max effort engine